Solar Design And Permitting In El Paso, TX

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Solar design and permitting in El Paso, TX requires navigating municipal building codes, El Paso Electric interconnection requirements, and specific documentation standards that ensure safe, compliant installations. Solar Permit Solutions provides comprehensive plan sets and expert guidance to streamline approvals for residential and commercial projects throughout the region.

El Paso follows the 2021 International Residential Code with local amendments under Title 18 of the City Code of Ordinances. Solar installations require building permits obtained through the City's One Stop Shop at 811 Texas Avenue, where representatives assist with submissions and inspections. All electrical work must comply with the 2020 National Electrical Code, and systems must meet structural requirements specific to rooftop or ground-mounted configurations.

El Paso Electric serves as the utility provider and requires a distributed generation interconnection application before installation begins. Contractors must submit one-line diagrams and site diagrams identifying major equipment, including the utility-accessible disconnect device and metering point. The utility strongly recommends waiting for design approval before installing panels, as systems built without prior EPE authorization risk non-compliance with interconnection standards. After installation and final electrical inspection from the authority having jurisdiction, contractors contact EPE to schedule field verification and bi-directional meter installation.

The City's zoning code under Section 20.10.200.A permits solar energy conversion systems as accessory uses in any district, provided they meet height limitations and setback requirements. Ground-mounted systems must not extend above fence lines, while roof-mounted arrays should conform to the existing roof slope and not project beyond the roofline. Properties within homeowners associations receive protection under Texas Property Code Section 202.010, which prevents HOAs from prohibiting solar installations that meet specific aesthetic and safety criteria.

El Paso Electric customers qualify for net metering under Rate Schedule No. 48, which credits excess generation against consumption. The minimum monthly bill remains $30.25 regardless of production levels. Customers must note that participation in distributed generation excludes enrollment in the Texas Community Solar Program or Budget Billing Plan.

Solar Permit Solutions delivers permit-ready plan sets that include detailed site plans with property line setbacks and conduit routes, electrical diagrams with conductor specifications, structural attachment details, and safety placards compliant with local regulations. Professional engineering stamps are available when required by the jurisdiction. The streamlined process helps homeowners, contractors, and solar installers move from design approval through Permission To Operate without delays caused by incomplete documentation or overlooked requirements.

Contact Solar Permit Solutions to handle your El Paso solar permitting needs with accuracy and efficiency.

RESIDENTIAL
COMMERCIAL
Residential House
OFF-GRID SOLAR
Solar Permit Process Workflow

☀️ Solar Permit Process Workflow

Your streamlined path from project submission to approved solar installation permit, simple, fast, and hassle-free

Start
1
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Submit Project Details

Begin by providing us with the essential details of your solar installation project. This includes information about your property and the solar system.

2
💰

Receive Invoice

Once we have the initial project details, we will provide you with a customized quote. This quote will outline the cost of our services based on the size and complexity of your project.

3
⚙️

Permit Application Preparation

Our team of experts will begin preparing your permit application. We handle the entire preparation process, so you can focus on your project.

Complete
4

Receive Solar Design

We will email you the solar plan with stamps (if necessary depending on your state).

Why Choose Solar Permit Solutions?

We streamline the solar permitting process with expertise, precision, and dedication, so you can focus on what matters most; your solar installation.

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Fast Turnaround Times

Time is money in solar installations. Our streamlined processes and experienced team ensure your permit-ready plans are delivered quickly without sacrificing quality, keeping your project on schedule.

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Nationwide Coverage

Operating across all 50 states, we understand the unique permitting requirements and regulations of every jurisdiction. No matter where your project is located, we've got you covered.

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Comprehensive Plan Sets

Our detailed documentation includes site plans, electrical diagrams, structural details, wire schedules, and everything needed for first-time approval eliminating costly revision delays.


Code Compliance Guaranteed

Stay compliant with local building codes and regulations. Our plans are meticulously designed to meet AHJ requirements, ensuring smooth approvals and protecting your investment.

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Advanced Technology

We utilize cutting-edge satellite imaging technology to create precise solar site designs, ensuring optimal system placement and maximum efficiency for your installation.

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Expert Support Team

Our experienced professionals guide you through every step of the permitting process, providing dedicated assistance from initial consultation to final PTO approval.

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Versatile Services

Whether you're a homeowner, DIY enthusiast, business owner, or professional solar installer, we serve residential, commercial, and off-grid projects of all sizes and complexities.

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Engineering Stamps Included

Professional engineering certifications and stamps are available, ensuring your electrical and structural plans meet the highest professional standards required by authorities.

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Transparent Pricing

No hidden fees or surprise costs. We provide upfront, customized quotes based on your project's specifics, offering competitive rates and exceptional value for comprehensive services.

50
States Covered
100%
Code Compliant
Fast
Turnaround Time
Expert
Support Team

SOLAR PERMIT READY PLANS · DELIVERED

Streamlined process

Solar site designs are expertly crafted with attention to detail, using cutting-edge satellite imagery technology to ensure maximum efficiency.

Plan Set

Your tailored plan set is carefully crafted to address the specific requirements of your property, facilitating a seamless solar permit approval. We provide comprehensive and precise designs that guarantee full compliance with local regulations and codes.

Solar Permit Design

Engineering Review

Our team of skilled professionals carefully manages every stage of the process, guaranteeing that all electrical and structural certifications are handled with precision and expertise.

PTO and Interconnection

We simplify the solar interconnection and Permission To Operate (PTO) process, taking care of all the intricate details. This allows contractors and businesses to focus on expanding their operations without the hassle of navigating the complex steps required.

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Get in touch today

We are dedicated to providing top-notch solar permit services to homeowners, business owners, DIY, and solar installers. Contact us today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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What is Solar Permit Solutions and how does it help El Paso property owners?

Solar Permit Solutions provides expert Residential Solar Permit Design and Commercial Solar Permit Design services tailored to El Paso building codes. You receive PE-stamped engineering plans, AHJ-compliant documentation, and complete permit submissions that meet City of El Paso Development Services requirements for seamless project approval.

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Who benefits from your solar permitting and design services in El Paso?

You benefit whether you're a homeowner installing rooftop panels, a business owner pursuing commercial solar solutions, or a DIY enthusiast designing an Off-Grid Solar System Design project. Professional contractors also rely on our licensed engineers to deliver permit-ready documentation that satisfies El Paso Electrical Division standards.

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How do you begin the solar permit design process for El Paso projects?

You start by submitting your project details through our website or email. Our engineering team reviews your site specifications, prepares code-compliant structural and electrical plans, and handles all documentation required by El Paso permitting authorities, giving you a clear path from initial consultation to approved installation.

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Can you provide permit design services for both residential and commercial solar installations?

Yes, you receive comprehensive permit design services for projects of any scale. Our team creates engineered plan sets for residential rooftop systems, large commercial arrays, and independent off-grid configurations, all prepared to meet El Paso municipal codes and El Paso Electric interconnection requirements.

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Solar PV Design Workbook - Lead Magnet Preview
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Our Solution

Solar Permit Solutions accelerates renewable energy project timelines by combining deep regulatory expertise with advanced engineering proficiency. Our team of licensed Professional Engineers applies extensive industry experience and modern design approaches to streamline approval processes across diverse local and county jurisdictions. We manage every stage of the permitting lifecycle, from initial site evaluations to final inspection sign-offs, delivering precision and efficiency throughout each critical milestone of your installation.

Submission Form
solar permit design team reviewing solar plan sets
Solar Permit Solutions brings specialized regulatory insight to accelerate your solar permitting experience, ensuring precise execution at each milestone and clearing away roadblocks before they disrupt your timeline. From assembling documentation to securing final authorization, our full-service approach maintains complete regulatory compliance while shielding your solar investment from avoidable delays and unforeseen challenges.
Comprehensive Solar Design Service

Comprehensive Solar Design Services

At SolarPermitSolutions.com, we specialize in delivering complete solar design packages that streamline your project's approval process. Our all-inclusive solutions ensure a seamless and efficient path to solar installation.

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Detailed Site Plan

  • Property line setbacks
  • Septic & leach field locations
  • Conduit routing paths
  • Main service panel locations
  • Solar array placement optimization

Electrical Plans

  • Detailed conductor specifications
  • Complete conduit & wire schedules
  • Comprehensive wiring schematics
  • Load calculations
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Structural Engineering

  • Roof-mounted: Rafter & mounting details
  • Ground-mounted: Complete racking plans
  • Foundation specifications
  • Load-bearing calculations
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Safety & Signage

  • Code-compliant safety placards
  • Required warning signage
  • Local regulation compliance
  • Updated to latest NEC standards

PE Stamps & Certification

  • Professional Engineering stamps
  • Licensed PE certifications
  • State-specific approvals
  • Structural & electrical stamps
💬

Expert Technical Support

  • Dedicated project assistance
  • AHJ coordination support
  • Permit revision assistance
  • Throughout project lifecycle

Ready to streamline your solar project approval process?

Solar Design and Permitting in El Paso, TX - 2025 Case Study

Solar Design and Permitting in El Paso, TX

Comprehensive Market Analysis & Process Guide | 2025

SolSmart Gold Designated City

Market Overview

6.7
Peak Sun Hours Daily
302
Sunny Days Per Year
$2.30
Cost Per Watt (Avg)
9.27
Years to Payback

Why El Paso for Solar?

El Paso, known as "The Sun City," receives 6.65 kWh/m²/day of solar radiation annually—among the highest in the United States. With 3,762 hours of sunshine annually and a streamlined permitting process recognized by SolSmart Gold designation since 2017, El Paso represents one of the most favorable markets for solar installations in Texas.

Solar System Costs in El Paso

System Cost by Size (Before Incentives)
Cost Breakdown Analysis
System Size Cost Before Incentives Federal Tax Credit (30%) Net Cost Est. Annual Production
5 kW $11,516 $3,455 $8,061 8,400 kWh
8 kW $18,426 $5,528 $12,898 13,440 kWh
10 kW $23,032 $6,910 $16,122 16,800 kWh
11.4 kW (Avg) $26,257 $7,877 $18,380 19,152 kWh
15 kW $34,548 $10,364 $24,184 25,200 kWh

Note: The 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) expires December 31, 2025. Systems must be installed and operational by this date to qualify.

Permitting Process & Requirements

City of El Paso Building Permit

All solar PV installations require a building permit from the City of El Paso Planning & Inspections Department. El Paso has earned SolSmart Gold designation for its streamlined solar permitting pathway.

Permit Type Electrical/Building Permit
Submission Method Online via Citizen Access Portal
Over-the-Counter Available for Small PV Systems
Review Timeline 2-4 Weeks (Standard)
City of El Paso Planning & Inspections

📍 One Stop Shop: 811 Texas Ave, El Paso, TX 79901

📞 (915) 212-0104

📧 oss@elpasotexas.gov

🕐 Mon-Thu: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM | Fri: 8:00 AM - 11:30 AM

Permitting Timeline

Application Submission
Day 1 - Submit via Citizen Access Portal or One Stop Shop
Plan Review
Days 2-14 - City reviews plans for code compliance
Permit Issuance
Days 14-21 - Permit issued upon approval
Installation
Days 21-24 - Contractor installs system (1-3 days typical)
Final Inspection
Days 24-28 - City electrical inspection
Utility Interconnection
Days 28-35 - EPE meter installation & approval

Permit Fees & Costs

Total Permit Cost Distribution
Fee Category Amount
Master Permit (66% of total) Varies by project value
Electrical Permit (20% of total) Varies by project value
Plumbing (7%) Varies by project value
Mechanical (7%) Varies by project value
Technology Fee Additional applicable fees

El Paso Electric Interconnection Fees

Systems ≤100 kW $85
Systems >100 kW $230
Expansion Application $42.50
Bi-directional Meter No Charge

Design Requirements & Documentation

📋 Site Plan Requirements

  • Property boundaries and setbacks
  • Roof dimensions and layout
  • Panel placement locations
  • Fire department access pathways
  • Existing electrical service location

⚡ Electrical Diagrams

  • Single-line diagram (max 10 MB)
  • Inverter specifications
  • Disconnect switch location
  • EPE metering point
  • Phase matching verification

🔧 Structural Documentation

  • Roof structural analysis
  • Load calculations (wind/dead loads)
  • Mounting system specifications
  • PE stamp (systems >10kW)
  • Roof age and condition

Texas Senate Bill 1202 (Effective September 1, 2025)

Texas has streamlined permitting for Distributed Energy Resources including residential solar. Key provisions:

Automated Permitting Allowed SolarAPP+ Compatible 2-Day Permit Issuance
Third-Party Inspections BESS Included 15-Day Notification Window

El Paso Electric Interconnection

Net Metering Program Details

Maximum System Size 50 kW
Sizing Requirement Based on prior year usage
Minimum Monthly Bill $30.25
Credit Rate Rate Schedule No. 48
Annual Credit Payout At $50 threshold
El Paso Electric - Solar Interconnection

📧 smallrenewables@epelectric.com

📞 Customer Care: (915) 543-5790

🌐 epelectric.com/residential/rooftop-solar

Interconnection Process Steps

⚠️ Important Rate Case Update (2025)

El Paso Electric filed rate case Docket No. 57568 with Texas PUC. Proposed changes for new solar customers after July 1, 2025 may include: limited net metering to systems under 50kW, export caps at 10% of prior year usage, and avoided cost rate credits for excess generation. Existing solar customers' rate plans are grandfathered.

Financial Analysis & Savings

25-Year Savings Projection (11.4 kW System)
Monthly Bill Comparison
Financial Metric Value Notes
Average Electricity Rate $0.13/kWh 36% below national average
Average Monthly Bill $204 1,569 kWh monthly usage
25-Year Savings (Cash Purchase) $38,173 Average system size
Solar Payback Period 9.27 Years With federal tax credit
First Year Savings $2,400 $0-down loan scenario
20-Year Savings $59,700 2.4% annual rate increase assumed

Solar Resource Data

Monthly Solar Irradiance (kWh/m²/day)
El Paso vs Texas Cities - Peak Sun Hours
6.65
Annual Avg. Solar Radiation (kWh/m²/day)
7.22
Peak Month (March) kWh/m²/day
31.77°
Optimal Panel Tilt Angle

Available Incentives

Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

Credit Amount 30% of total system cost
Expiration December 31, 2025
Eligible Costs Equipment, installation, batteries
Rollover Yes, to following tax year

⚠️ The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (July 2025) ended the residential solar ITC effective January 1, 2026.

Texas & Local Incentives

Property Tax Exemption 100% of added value
Sales Tax Exemption None (Texas has none)
Net Metering EPE Program Available
PACE Financing Available for eligible properties

El Paso Electric Community Solar Program

For those unable to install rooftop solar, EPE offers a Community Solar subscription program:

Capacity Charge: $15.14/kW/month
(Income-qualified: $13.63)
Facilities: 15 MW total
Including new Chihuahuan Desert 10MW
Benefits: Portable within TX service area
No installation required

Local Solar Installers

El Paso has a growing network of qualified solar installers. The following companies are active in the local market:

Solar Smart Living

Veteran-owned, serving El Paso since 2007

Local VOSB Certified

Sunfire Solar Systems

Locally owned and operated installer

Local Residential

Border Solar

Founded 2008, 1000+ installations

Local Commercial

Meraki Solar

Texas-based installer serving El Paso

Regional Financing

Sunshine Renewable Solutions

Houston HQ with El Paso office

Statewide Turn-key

IntegrateSun

Top-rated on EnergySage Marketplace

National Top Rated

Tip: According to NREL research, local installers typically offer quotes 10% lower than national companies. Obtain at least 3 quotes before making a decision.

Market Considerations

✓ Advantages
  • Highest peak sun hours in Texas (6.7 hrs/day)
  • SolSmart Gold streamlined permitting
  • EPE net metering with retail credit
  • 302 sunny days annually
  • Property tax exemption for solar
  • Texas SB 1202 faster permit processing
  • Strong local installer network
  • Below-average electricity rates ($0.13/kWh)
⚠ Considerations
  • Federal ITC expires Dec 31, 2025
  • EPE rate case may reduce future benefits
  • $30.25 minimum monthly bill with solar
  • System sizing limited to prior year usage
  • No state solar rebate program
  • High summer AC usage (2,000+ kWh)
  • Dust accumulation affects panel efficiency
  • Export caps possible after July 2025

Key Contacts & Resources

City of El Paso - Planning & Inspections

📍 811 Texas Ave, El Paso, TX 79901

📞 (915) 212-0104

📧 oss@elpasotexas.gov

🌐 elpasotexas.gov/planning-and-inspections

El Paso Electric Company

📍 100 N Stanton St, El Paso, TX 79901

📞 (915) 543-5970

📧 smallrenewables@epelectric.com

🌐 epelectric.com

Citizen Access Portal (Permits)

🌐 aca-prod.accela.com/ELPASO

Online 24/7 permit applications and status

Texas Public Utility Commission

📞 1-888-782-8477

🌐 puc.texas.gov

Rate case inquiries and complaints

Solar Design and Permitting Case Study | El Paso, TX | Data compiled December 2025

Sources: EnergySage, El Paso Electric, City of El Paso, NREL, SEIA, SolSmart

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