CPS Energy expands solar access and faces scrutiny over storm outages

CPS Energy is expanding its community solar program in San Antonio to provide renewable energy options for residents who cannot install traditional rooftop panels, such as renters or those with heavy tree cover. In partnership with Big Sun Solar, the utility allows customers to purchase panels at shared sites. Each 620-watt panel is priced at $1,240, offering estimated annual savings of $115 and roughly $2,300 in savings over a 20-year period. Initial installations will utilize roof space from the San Antonio Food Bank, with future plans to expand onto Bexar County land.

Separately, members of the San Antonio City Council are demanding a meeting with CPS Energy officials to review the utility’s response to a late August storm. The severe weather left approximately 112,000 customers without power, with thousands remaining without electricity for several days. Council members Sukh Kaur, Edward Mungia, and Teri Castillo are seeking a comprehensive breakdown of the decision-making process and response timeline to improve the city’s energy resilience.