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Going Solar with AEP Texas

What AEP Texas customers need to know about solar interconnection, buyback credit, and system sizing in Coastal Bend, South Texas, and parts of West Texas.

By USSolar.shop Editorial TeamReviewed by USSolar.shop Editorial TeamUpdated August 20266 min read

AEP Texas is a transmission and distribution utility serving Coastal Bend, South Texas, and parts of West Texas. AEP Texas delivers; buyback is set by your retail electric provider.

How AEP Texas handles rooftop solar

AEP Texas delivers; buyback is set by your retail electric provider.

Interconnection is the step that determines when your system can legally export power. Your installer files the application, the utility reviews the one-line diagram and equipment certifications, and after a passed local inspection you receive permission to operate.

  • Covers Corpus Christi, Laredo, Abilene and surrounding areas
  • Strong sun resource across much of the territory
  • Interconnection handled through the AEP Texas distributed generation process

Sizing a system in this territory

Because export credit varies, size the array to your actual annual kWh usage rather than to available roof space. Covering 80% to 100% of usage is the common target when buyback is weaker than the retail rate.

Use the Texas Solar Calculator with your city selected to see how the local rate and sun hours change the payback period.

What to ask before you sign

Any installer working in this territory should be able to answer these in writing.

  • How many interconnections have you completed here in the past year?
  • What is the expected timeline from contract to permission to operate?
  • What export credit am I actually receiving, in cents per kWh?
  • Who files the interconnection application and pays the fee?

Frequently asked questions

Sources

  1. Public Utility Commission of Texas
  2. DSIRE — Database of State Incentives for Renewables & Efficiency
  3. U.S. EIA — Electric Power Monthly, Texas residential rates