2026 Austin (78746) Line-Item Benchmark Schedule Labor Index: 1.03x
Use this schedule when reviewing quotes from contractors in Austin, TX. Quotes exceeding these ranges by more than 18% typically contain dealer financing markups or unitemized overhead.
| Oncor / CenterPoint / Austin Energy Benchmark (78746) | Without Solar (Utility Tariff) | With 8.5 kW Solar + Battery | Net Homeowner Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2026 Residential Electric Rate | $0.165 / kWh (+24.8% in 3 yrs) | $0.068 / kWh Levelized | Locks in hedge against utility rate hikes |
| System Investment & 30% Federal Tax Credit | $0 Upfront ($2,280/yr forever) | Gross: $24,952 / ITC: -$7,486 | Net Cost: $17,466 (7.7 yr payback) |
| 25-Year Cumulative Utility Spend vs. Savings | -$78,660 | +$61,194 Net Savings | Includes 5.5 hrs/day peak solar irradiance |
Interactive 78746 Property Customizer Real-Time Math
Local Code, Rebate & Insurance Mandate Notes for ZIP 78746
Insurance & Wind/Hail Rule (Travis County): Texas 1%–2% wind/hail deductible zone; UL 2218 Class-4 impact shingles reduce premiums up to 28%.
2026 Incentives & Utility Rebates: 30% Federal ITC + Texas Utility Solar/Battery Rebates + $2,000 IRA Heat Pump Credit
Permitting Authority: All structural roofing, electrical panel, and mechanical replacements in 78746 must be permitted through City of Austin Building & Permitting Division (Travis County) (Design Wind Speed: 115 MPH).
Frequently Asked Questions — Austin, TX (78746)
What is the current electric rate for Oncor / CenterPoint / Austin Energy in 78746?
Residential customers in Austin, TX (78746) served by Oncor / CenterPoint / Austin Energy pay an average of $0.165/kWh, following a 24.8% tariff increase over the past 3 years.
How fast is the solar payback period in Austin, TX (78746)?
With 5.5 peak sun hours per day and the 30% federal tax credit ($7,486 savings on an 8.5 kW system), the average payback period in 78746 is 7.7 years, generating $61,194 in cumulative 25-year savings.