Solar leases and solar PPAs are similar to renting your solar panel system. You enter into an agreement with the solar leasing company that entitles you to the benefits of the system (i.e., the energy that the solar panels generate) for the term of the contract, which is generally around 20 years.
Under these arrangements, the solar leasing company owns and maintains your solar panel system, so it is entitled to the rebates, tax breaks, and financial incentives that are available for the solar panel system. Consumers can indirectly benefit from those savings through lower electricity rates.
The structure of your agreement will vary slightly depending on the type of solar lease/PPA you choose. Solar leases and solar PPAs come with $0-down, prepaid, and custom down payment options, and are available to consumers in about 25 U.S. states. Lease and PPA terms vary greatly by state and by installer, so explore multiple options to ensure that you choose the financing choice that best fits your needs.
While the terms “solar lease” and “solar PPA” are used interchangeably on this page, and are very similar in practice, there is a key difference between the two. With a solar lease, you agree to pay a fixed monthly “rent” or lease payment, which is calculated using the estimated amount of electricity the system will produce, in exchange for the right to use the solar energy system. With a solar PPA, instead of paying to “rent” the solar panel system, you agree to purchase the power generated by the system at a set per-kWh price.
Solar lease agreements and PPAs can appear more complicated than a solar loan or cash purchase because of the additional terms that are included, but they generally provide lessees with flexibility in the event that their circumstances change.
While solar leases and PPAs are commonly offered as $0-down agreements, you may also encounter custom down payment or prepaid options as you shop for solar. Learn more about commonly offered solar lease/PPA structures, as well as the solar energy advantages and disadvantages.
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Updated 10/16
Updated 09/15
All Rights Reserved. Copyright © 2009 - 2016
Updated 10/16
Updated 09/15
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