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Financing

Own your system, own your savings.

Three ways to pay for solar. The right choice depends on your capital, tax liability, and how long you plan to stay in your home.

Financing options

Cash vs. loan vs. lease

Each option has meaningfully different long-term economics. Understanding the difference before you get quotes puts you in a stronger position.

Best value

Cash purchase

Best long-term economics

Maximum lifetime savings
State and utility incentives go to you directly
No interest — highest ROI
Own the system outright
✕Requires upfront capital
✕Ties up $15k–$25k

Savings

Highest

Payback

10–13 years

Solar loan

Own it with $0 down

No upfront cost
Still own the system
State and utility incentives still apply
Monthly payment often less than current bill
✕Interest reduces net savings
✕Total cost higher than cash

Savings

High

Payback

13–16 years

Lease / PPA

Lowest barrier to entry

Zero upfront cost
Installer maintains the system
Immediate bill reduction
✕You don't own the system
✕ITC goes to the leasing company
✕Complicates home sale
✕Lower long-term savings

Savings

Moderate

Payback

N/A (you never own it)

Incentives

Owned systems keep state and utility incentives — leases don't

State solar tax credits, utility rebates, and property tax exemptions go to you when you own your system with cash or a loan. Programs vary by state — your installer will identify what applies in your area.

With a lease or PPA, the installer owns the system and keeps any available credits. The federal residential solar credit (Section 25D) was eliminated for purchases made on or after January 1, 2026.

Example: $20,000 system (loan)

Gross system cost$20,000
Monthly loan payment (10yr, 6%)~$222/mo
Avg. monthly bill reduction~$150/mo
State rebates / incentivesVaries by state

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