Houston's solar surge: How tariffs, rising costs and Freedom Solar Power are shaping the future of energy
Houston is at a turning point in its energy journey. As the city looks to more sustainable power sources, solar energy is stepping into the spotlight. Leading that charge is Freedom Solar Power, a top solar installer based in Texas, now expanding rapidly across Houston's residential and commercial markets. But the path forward isn't without challenges — especially with new federal tariffs shaking up the solar industry.
Tariffs are changing the game
In 2024, the U.S. government imposed steep tariffs on solar components imported from Southeast Asia — countries like Cambodia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, which supply more than 75% of America's solar panels. Some of these new tariffs are as high as 3,521%, dramatically increasing the cost of solar modules and raising project costs by up to 30%.
The goal of these tariffs is to boost U.S. manufacturing and reduce dependence on foreign supply chains. However, the immediate impact has been a sharp rise in prices, creating hurdles for both solar companies and customers looking to make the switch.
Freedom solar power's smart response
Even with these industry headwinds, Freedom Solar Power is gaining momentum in Houston. Since opening its local office, the company has completed major installations for organizations like ABC Home and Commercial Services and the Houston Museum of Natural Science.
To stay ahead of the tariffs, Freedom Solar Power secured inventory at pre-tariff prices by leveraging long-standing supplier relationships. This foresight allows them to offer lower rates to customers in the short term — an advantage many competitors can't match.
Their strategy centers on delivering high-quality, customized solar systems that meet the diverse needs of Houston residents and businesses. As Texas' largest installer of Tesla Powerwall batteries, Freedom also offers dependable energy storage solutions — an essential benefit in a region prone to hurricanes and grid outages.
The financial and environmental payoff
The numbers speak for themselves. Take Freedom's project at Stainless Structurals in Conroe, Texas: over 4,000 solar panels were installed across 118,000 square feet, offsetting 78% of the facility's electricity use and saving an estimated $4.8 million over 25 years.
Across Texas, Freedom Solar customers save an average of $28,000 in electricity costs over the life of their systems. With financing options that start as low as $99 per month, going solar is more accessible than many people think.
And thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), customers can tap into tax credits that help offset higher equipment costs caused by tariffs. These incentives make solar an even smarter investment in the long run.
Take control of your energy future
In a rapidly changing energy market, adaptability and customer focus are key. Freedom Solar Power is showing how solar providers can lead by anticipating challenges, securing strong supplier deals and making clean energy both affordable and dependable.
Partnering with a proven provider like Freedom Solar Power can put you on the path to energy independence, long-term savings and a cleaner environment. As Houston moves toward a more sustainable future, those who lead today will power tomorrow.
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37 minutes ago
- Axios
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Forbes
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