Every financing option we offer saves you money compared to staying on utility power. The right choice depends on whether you want to own the system, minimize monthly payments, or maximize long-term savings.
Compare Your Options
Read through all four options, then use the comparison table below to see exactly how they stack up on every key factor.
Side by Side
| Feature | PPA | Lease | Loan | Cash |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | $0 | $0 | $0 | $15K–$35K |
| You own the system | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Federal tax credit | Company keeps it | Company keeps it | You keep it | You keep it |
| Monthly payment | Usage rate only | Fixed lease payment | Loan payment | None ever |
| Maintenance included | Yes — free | Yes — free | Your responsibility | Your responsibility |
| Increases home value | Minimal | Minimal | Yes | Yes — most |
| Rate protection | Locked in | Fixed payment | Own it outright | Complete |
| Transferable when selling | Yes | Yes | Transfers with home | Yes |
| 25-year savings estimate | $25K–$40K | $20K–$35K | $40K–$60K | $55K–$80K |
| Best for | Zero risk, simplicity | Fixed budget | Ownership + value | Max ROI |
Savings estimates are illustrative based on average utility costs and solar production. Your actual savings depend on your utility provider, system size, and local conditions. Get a free estimate for your exact numbers.
Why PPA Is So Popular Right Now
As of the end of 2025, homeowners who purchase solar systems directly no longer receive the federal Investment Tax Credit. The credit now applies only to commercial solar — which includes solar companies that own PPA and lease systems.
This means the solar company that owns your PPA system claims the 30% tax credit — and uses those savings to offer you a lower locked rate. In other words, the tax credit now benefits PPA customers indirectly through lower pricing, rather than buyers through a direct refund.
Combined with rising utility rates, this makes the PPA the most attractive it has ever been for homeowners who want zero upfront cost and immediate savings.
Based on California avg. Utility rate assumed to rise 6%/yr. Your numbers may differ.