CenterPoint’s 2026 Solar Rebate Program Is Official
And the news is very good.
Last month, CenterPoint Energy officially kicked off its 2026 solar incentive program at a launch event in Houston. The meeting was held at Casa Do Brasil and brought together solar contractors, energy professionals, and CenterPoint leadership from across the region.
Between industry-related presentations from CenterPoint, networking with fellow contractors, and more meat than anyone needed on a weekday afternoon, we got the news many of us were hoping to hear. The CenterPoint solar rebates offered in 2025 are carrying over unchanged into 2026. Even better, the total program budget has increased from $1 million to $1.5 million.
For homeowners and businesses considering solar in the Houston area, this is significant news. It means another full year of strong incentives that directly reduce the cost of installing solar, with more total funding available than last year.
We expect to continue to help a lot of customers take advantage of these rebates in 2026. Below is a clear breakdown of how the program works and what it means for your solar project.
What Is the CenterPoint Solar Rebate Program?
CenterPoint Energy’s solar rebate program is designed to reduce peak electrical demand across its service territory by encouraging customers to install solar energy systems. In exchange, CenterPoint offers cash incentives that lower the upfront cost of solar installations.
These rebates are available for both residential and commercial customers, but they are not unlimited. Funding is capped each year and is awarded on a first come, first served basis through approved participating contractors.
KW Solar is a long time CenterPoint participating vendor and handles the rebate process on behalf of our customers.
Residential Solar Rebates for 2026
Homeowners within CenterPoint’s electric service territory may qualify for one of the following residential solar rebates.
Standard Residential Rebate
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$135 per rated kilowatt installed
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System size capped at 15 kW
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Maximum rebate of $2,025
For a typical Houston home, this rebate alone can offset a meaningful portion of the total system cost.
Low Income Residential Rebate
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$200 per rated kilowatt installed
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System size capped at 15 kW
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Maximum rebate of $3,000
Eligibility for the low income rebate is based on CenterPoint program requirements. If a household qualifies, this enhanced rebate can significantly improve solar affordability.
Commercial Solar Incentives for 2026
CenterPoint’s Commercial Standard Offer Program is available to businesses, industrial facilities, multifamily properties, and other non residential customers.
Commercial incentives are calculated differently than residential rebates and are tied to system performance and demand reduction.
Commercial Incentive Structure
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$200 per kilowatt of demand reduction
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$0.03 per kilowatt hour of verified energy savings
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Total incentives are capped at 50 percent of total installed project costs
For larger systems, these rebates can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars and sometimes even more.
How the Rebate Process Works
For Residential Customers
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System evaluation and design
We review energy usage, roof layout, shading, and system size to determine eligibility. -
Rebate calculation
The estimated CenterPoint rebate is included directly in your solar proposal. -
Application submission
KW Solar prepares and submits all required rebate paperwork. -
Installation and verification
After installation and approval, the rebate is issued to the installer and reflected in your final project cost.
For Commercial Customers
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Energy and demand analysis
We evaluate historical load data and system performance projections. -
Incentive modeling and application
KW Solar handles all documentation and submissions. -
Installation and performance verification
Incentives are paid according to CenterPoint program rules once verification requirements are met.
Important Things to Know
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Rebate funds are limited and allocated on a first come, first served basis
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Customers must work with a participating CenterPoint vendor like KW Solar
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Systems must be fully installed, interconnected, and approved to receive payment
Why This Matters for Houston Solar Customers
Houston’s high electricity usage, strong solar production, and rising utility rates already make solar a smart long term investment for many residents. CenterPoint rebates further improve the economics by reducing upfront costs and shortening payback periods.
Ready to Take Advantage of the 2026 Rebates?
KW Solar has been installing solar in the Houston area for over a decade and works directly with CenterPoint to secure rebates for our customers. From system design to paperwork and final approval, we manage the entire process.
If you are considering solar in 2026 and want to understand how much the CenterPoint rebate could reduce your cost, contact KW Solar at 832 844 5790 or reach out online to schedule a consultation.