Texas homeowner faces doubled costs after solar lease fails to eliminate bills

A Texas homeowner, Craig McKinney of Waxahachie, reported that a solar lease intended to eliminate his electricity bills instead resulted in doubled monthly costs. McKinney stated that after signing a contract based on promises of zeroing out his utility expenses, he discovered his home could not accommodate enough panels to meet his energy needs.

As a result, McKinney is currently paying his standard $300 monthly electric bill alongside a $320 monthly solar lease payment, totaling $620 per month. He noted that the company offered a backup plan involving batteries and a different power provider, but he has been unable to exit the lease without paying $75,000.

In response to such consumer issues, Texas is implementing new industry oversight. Starting September 1, most residential solar retailers and salespeople must register with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation, granting the state authority to take action against violators.