Quick Answer
Oncor (Dallas-Fort Worth) delivers electricity but doesn\'t set solar rates—your Retail Electric Provider (REP) does. Some REPs offer 1:1 credits, others pay wholesale ($0.03-0.05/kWh). Research REPs before going solar. DFW warning: this is hail country—ensure hail-resistant panels and verify insurance covers solar damage. REP selection is the #1 factor in DFW solar economics.
Oncor Overview
Oncor is the largest electricity delivery company in Texas, serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas. They handle power delivery and solar interconnection, while your REP handles billing and buyback.
From my experience:DFW solar has the same REP complexity as Houston—Oncor just delivers the power, your retail provider determines your solar economics. The key difference in Dallas: hail. DFW is one of the most hail-prone metro areas in the country, and I've talked to homeowners whose panels got destroyed. Make sure your installer uses hail-resistant panels (not all are equal) and verify your homeowner's insurance covers solar damage. On the flip side, the DFW market is competitive with lots of installers, so get multiple quotes.
DFW Solar Market
Oncor territory covers one of the fastest-growing solar markets in Texas. The key to success is choosing a retail electric provider with competitive solar buyback rates for your excess generation. (Source: utility tariff filings and DSIRE Database)
[Editor's Note, Jan 2026]:Net metering policies, rate structures, and program availability verified with current utility data.
Deregulated Market
How It Works
- Oncor: Delivers power, maintains lines, handles interconnection
- Your REP: Bills you, determines solar buyback policy
- ERCOT: Manages Texas grid
- Your choice: Shop for REP with good solar terms
Interconnection
Oncor Process
- Application: Submitted by your installer
- Net meter: Oncor installs bidirectional meter
- Timeline: 2-4 weeks typical after install
- Inspections: City/county plus Oncor approval
REP Solar Options
Finding Solar Buyback
| Buyback Type | Credit Rate | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1:1 retail | Full rate | Best value, limited REPs |
| Wholesale | ~$0.03-0.05/kWh | Common |
| None | $0 | Avoid for solar |
REP Shopping
Before going solar in DFW, compare REP solar buyback plans. Some offer 1:1 credits, others pay wholesale, and some pay nothing. This choice can add or subtract thousands from your solar value. (Source: industry data and EnergySage analysis)
DFW Solar Strategy
Maximizing Value
- Research REPs first: Find solar buyback options
- Right-size system: Match to your usage pattern
- Hail-resistant panels: DFW is hail-prone
- Consider batteries: Especially if buyback is low
The Bottom Line
DFW solar economics depend on your REP. Oncor delivers the power, but your retail provider determines how much your excess solar is worth. Do your REP research before going solar.
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