New Texas Solar Law Takes Effect September 1, Adds Consumer Protections
By Jose G. Landa, Copyright 2026 Eagle Pass Business Journal, Inc.
AUSTIN, Texas — Texans considering installing solar panels on their homes will have additional consumer protections beginning September 1, 2026 as a new state law regulating residential solar sales takes effect.
Senate Bill 1036 establishes new oversight of residential solar retailers and salespersons in Texas and is intended to provide consumers with greater protection when entering into solar purchase or lease agreements.
Under the law, residential solar retailers and individual salespersons will be required to register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation before selling or leasing residential solar energy systems.
The change is particularly important for homeowners approached by door-to-door solar representatives or contacted by companies offering solar installation and financing.
The law establishes prohibited business practices designed to address deceptive or misleading sales tactics.
Among the protections, solar representatives are prohibited from falsely claiming that they are affiliated with or endorsed by a government agency or electric utility when no such relationship exists.
The legislation also addresses solicitation practices and gives the state additional authority to regulate individuals and companies operating within the residential solar sales industry.
For consumers, the registration requirement provides another step they can take before signing what can be a significant long-term financial agreement.
Homeowners should carefully review the total cost of a solar system, financing terms, potential liens or other obligations, expected energy savings and warranties before signing a contract.
Residents should also be cautious when a salesperson promises that solar panels will completely eliminate an electric bill or suggests that a homeowner must make an immediate decision to qualify for a special government program.
The new Texas requirements come as residential solar systems continue to become increasingly common across the state.
