Going Solar with CPS Energy
CPS Energy serves San Antonio and Bexar County. If you’re installing rooftop solar here, this guide covers what you’ll pay for power, how you get credited for the energy you export, the interconnection process, and the fees to expect.
See what solar would actually save you on a CPS Energy bill — run a free estimate (no signup required).
Rates & getting paid for solar
Approx. bundled energy rate
11.5¢/kWh
Approx. solar export credit
6.0¢/kWh
As a municipal utility, CPS Energy both delivers your power and credits the solar energy you export — there’s no separate retail provider to choose. Rates shown are approximate; confirm current numbers with CPS Energy.
Rate figures are best-guess estimates from 2025 data and are not a quote.
Interconnection & permit fees
A $100 application fee per system, and CPS Energy owns and installs the meters. Your local permit fee still applies.
CPS Energy has historically offered rooftop solar rebates — check current program availability.
Fees are approximate — verify against CPS Energy’s current fee schedule and your local building department.
How to connect: step by step
Pull your local permits
Get a building & electrical permit from your city or county building department (your AHJ). Requirements vary locally; homeowners can often pull their own electrical permit as an owner-builder, though some jurisdictions require a licensed electrician for the interconnection wiring. See a local example: San Antonio solar permit guide.
Check with your HOA
Texas’s Solar Rights Act means an HOA can’t ban rooftop solar, but it can require written approval and basic appearance standards — submit your plans first. Property Code §202.010
Request interconnection from CPS Energy
Apply to CPS Energy to connect to the grid. They review the application, install the bi-directional meter, and credit the energy you export — all in one place. Don’t energize the system until they issue Permission to Operate (PTO). CPS Energy interconnection page
Submit your interconnection request
- Apply online at CPS Energy’s interconnection portal
- Questions or submissions: DG@cpsenergy.com
These utility portals are built for registered installers — as a DIY homeowner you’ll typically register as your own “installer of record” to file.
Pass inspection, then get switched on
Your city inspects the work and CPS Energy commissions the meter. Once you receive Permission to Operate, you can legally turn the system on and start earning credits.
For a neutral overview of going solar in Texas, see the Public Utility Commission’s guide: Thinking About Solar Panels for Your Home? Or read the full Texas solar guide.