Using the sun for energy has been a part of human history for many years. We know that as early as 

, humans used magnifying glasses to concentrate the sun's rays to make fire and burn ants. Fast forward to 1883, and American inventor Charles Fritts created the first functioning solar panels. But it wasn't until about 40 years ago that solar energy started to become commercialized.

With its gaining popularity, more and more homeowners are considering solar energy as their primary power source. Of course, many people know that solar panels come at a substantial upfront cost. But if you're not ready to commit to purchasing solar panels, solar leasing may be the solution for you.

Drawbacks of Solar Leasing

Benefits of Solar Leasing

Solar energy is a clean and sustainable source of energy. Additionally, solar is the most 

. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the devastating effects of climate change, it's clear that the world needs to band together to make a change. As a result, committing to solar energy is a commitment to our future.

But there are other benefits, too. Installing solar panels on your home can save you a significant amount on your utility bills and increase the value of your home.

If you've been considering solar panels, you may want to explore the option of solar leasing. Sometimes, leasing a car is a better option than purchasing it. So, why can't the same hold true for solar panels?

Solar leasing is a fairly straightforward concept that is very similar to leasing a car.

A homeowner can enter an agreement with a solar panel company to install solar panels on their property. The homeowner then pays a monthly fee for the lease while getting all the benefits of free solar energy.

It's important to note that the homeowner doesn't own the solar panels. Most solar panel contracts last roughly 20 years, and the homeowner can usually purchase the panels at the end of the lease for a discounted price.

There are a few things to know about how solar leasing works:

 Some companies will allow you to take out a solar lease with a 0% down payment. However, the bigger your down payment, the smaller your monthly payment.

 If you breach your lease agreement (miss payments), the company can remove the panels from your home.

 Solar leasing payments come with something called the "solar lease escalator." Your contract will outline the specific details, but you can expect your monthly payment to increase slightly annually. Plan for an annual increase between 1-5%.

Solar Leasing vs. Solar Purchasing: Pros & Cons

Now that you understand how solar leasing works, let's break down the differences between solar leasing and solar purchasing.

Some of the benefits of solar leasing are:

. Many people simply don't have that kind of money. Solar leasing is a much more affordable option as it spreads the cost out over several years.

Using solar panels as a power source helps to reduce your utility bills. When you solar lease, you may not own the panels, but you see the financial benefits of the installation immediately.

 When you lease, you don't have to cover any maintenance costs that come up.

Most solar leasing agreements allow you to purchase the solar panels at a discounted rate when you reach the end of the contract.

Some of the downsides to solar leasing are:

 leasing means you don't own the solar panels. This means the solar panel company can remove the panels if you breach the contract.

 Solar panels can increase a home's value. But this doesn't happen when you lease the panels, as they will be removed when you leave the house.

Many government programs offer rebates and tax credits for installing solar panels in your home. However, you're ineligible for these programs if you're leasing.

Most solar leasing contracts are 20 years, which is a long time to be held to a monthly payment.

If you choose to buy your solar panels at the end of your lease agreement, the overall lifetime cost will be higher than if you bought them outright.

 If you sell your home before your solar lease is up, you may incur a penalty for breaking the contract early.

There are many solar lease providers, but before you proceed with a lease, you must qualify as an applicant. Each provider will have different qualification requirements, but here are some of the factors you can expect to play into your lease application:

You'll likely need to provide permission for a credit check. Some solar lease lenders may only work with applicants with minimum credit scores, such as above 620. Additionally, the lower your credit score, the higher your interest may be on the lease. This tradeoff is to offset the risk for the solar lender, as someone with a low credit score is seen as having a higher risk of missing payments.

You'll need to own the land (you cannot put a solar lease on a property you're renting).

You'll likely need to provide documents to prove your employment status and income. This will verify to the lender that you can handle the monthly lease payment.

If you know a solar lease is the right choice for you, follow these steps to apply:

Conduct some research into several solar lease lenders. You'll want to research the lender's customer reviews and BBB ratings, prices, and application requirements. Make sure you evaluate the options to choose the best provider for your needs.

Make sure you meet your lender's qualifications.

Gather all the necessary paperwork and fill out the application.

Once you're approved, review the contract details. Make sure you understand all of the following:

The amount of the annual "escalator" and how that will impact your monthly payment

The consequences of missed and late payments (i.e., how many late or missed payments can happen before your solar panels are removed)

Any details about fees and penalties, especially for breaking the contract early

The details on purchasing the solar panels once the solar lease is over

Your solar lease is now approved! Make sure you budget for the monthly lease payment. Consider putting the lease on a monthly auto payment so you never miss it.

The typical duration of a solar lease agreement is 20 to 25 years. Most solar lease agreements have terms ranging from 20 to 25 years. This duration aligns with many solar panel systems' average lifespan and warranty.

Options to Consider Near the End of the Lease:

At the end of the lease term, lessees usually have several options. Below are a few common options:

 Continue leasing the system, possibly with renegotiated terms or rates.

 Some lease agreements offer the option to purchase the solar system at the end of the term for a predetermined price.

 If the lessee decides not to renew or buy, the lessor will typically remove the system. There might be terms in the lease specifying who covers the removal cost.

If the homeowner sells their home before the lease term ends, the solar lease agreement can typically be transferred to the new homeowner. However, the new homeowner would usually need to meet credit requirements.

If you're considering entering a solar lease agreement, it's essential to read and understand all terms and conditions thoroughly. Consulting with a legal professional or an expert in solar energy agreements can also be beneficial.

Solar leasing has become popular for many homeowners because it allows them to benefit from solar energy without the significant upfront costs of purchasing a solar system outright. However, there are still some potential upfront costs and considerations:

Many solar leasing companies advertise a "$0 down" or "no upfront cost" lease. In these cases, the homeowner can use solar energy without any initial payment. The solar company recovers its costs (and profits) through the monthly lease payments throughout the agreement.

 Some companies offer a prepaid solar lease option, where homeowners make a single upfront payment that covers the lease's duration. This payment is typically less than the cumulative total of monthly lease payments over the contract's life. It eliminates monthly bills and can provide savings over the long term.

: While most major solar leasing companies include site assessment in their packages, some might charge a fee for this. Similarly, some jurisdictions might have permitting fees, although these are often rolled into the lease agreement or absorbed by the leasing company.

 If your roof is not in good condition or unsuitable for solar panel installation, you might need to pay for repairs or upgrades. While this isn't a direct cost of the solar lease, it's a potential expense to make the property compatible with the solar installation.

 If you live in a community with a Homeowners Association (HOA), fees or costs might be associated with getting approval for the installation.

 While not an upfront cost, it's crucial to understand the monthly lease payments' structure. Some leases might have fixed monthly rates, while others might have escalating rates over time.

 One of the primary benefits of solar leasing is the potential savings on your electricity bill. However, it's essential to compare your monthly savings with your lease payment to understand the net benefit.

 Homeowners who purchase solar systems can often benefit from federal tax credits and other local incentives. However, the leasing company typically claims these benefits with a lease since they own the system. Some leasing companies might pass on a portion of these savings to consumers through reduced lease payments.

If you're considering solar leasing, getting quotes from multiple providers, understanding all potential costs, and reading the lease agreement thoroughly is essential. Ensure you have a clear picture of both upfront and long-term expenses to make an informed decision.

How Do I Know If a Solar Lease Is Right For Me?

As outlined above, a solar lease has both advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, only you can know if a solar lease is right for you over solar purchasing. But, some of the signs a lease is better for you are:

You don't have the money to buy solar panels outright.

You hate dealing with maintenance issues.

Your utility costs are incredibly high, and you must find a way to get them down quickly.

Whether you choose solar leasing or solar purchasing, you're making a fantastic choice for your utility bills and the environment. Getting in on this clean, affordable energy choice is a great idea as the demand for this energy source of the future continues to grow.



Light or No Light: Do Solar Panels Work Without Direct Sunlight?

Learn all you need to know about solar leasing, including how it works, the pros and cons compared to solar purchasing, and how to qualify for a solar lease. 

How Does Solar Leasing Work? (How It Works, Pros vs. Cons, and How to Qualify)

How Does Solar Leasing Work? (Pros & Cons and How to Qualify)

So, you're ready to pull the trigger and invest in solar panels for your home. Congratulations! You're making a financially sound and environmentally conscious decision. But now you have a big decision - which solar company to choose for your purchase. There are multiple vendors on the market, and it can be hard to understand which is the best option for your situation. Luckily, we can help you narrow things down. Here is a comprehensive guide to the best solar companies on the market, including each one's pros and cons.

Learn More 

Best Solar Companies 

What to Look for When Choosing a Solar Company

Before we dive into the details of our list of the best solar companies, let's ensure you know what makes a great vendor for solar installation. Here are some of the things you'll want to look for when selecting your solar panel vendor:

 You don't want to be a company's first, or even tenth, customer. Ask them how long they've been in business for. The more operational years under their belt, the more experienced they are.

This qualifier is similar to the above. You want to work with experienced vendors. Ask how many solar panel installations they've done so you can feel confident in their skill level.

: Almost all solar panel installers provide a warranty on the parts and/or their installation services. You'll want to ask if they provide a warranty and the details of the warranty.

 When someone installs solar panels on your home, they'll spend a lot of time on your roof. You'll want to ensure the business has proper insurance coverage if someone gets hurt or your roof is damaged. You can ask the vendor about their insurance coverage so you know you won't be stuck with big bills if an accident occurs.

 You only want to work with a licensed and bonded contractor for your solar panel installations. There are many industry-standard certifications available for solar installations. For example, one of the most well-known organizations is the 

North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP

). Ask the business if all their workers are licensed to work with solar panels.

 Always take the time to look at reviews before you consider a vendor. A solar panel company with bad reviews, or few reviews, is risky to work with.

: You can't compare vendors without taking into account pricing. You want to get quotes from a few places for your specific job and avoid anyone who seems to be charging too little or too much.

According to Architectural Digest, the average cost of installing solar panels nationwide is

. The average range is between $17,430 and $23,870 when considering the size of your roof, the type of panels, your home's energy needs, and tax incentives in your area.

Solar panels are an investment in your home. You can see a return on your investment (ROI) from the money you save from utility charges, but it typically takes many years to see that ROI. Most experts say that you can expect to see your return on investment within 10-15 years (if you live in a relatively sunny place).

But, you don't necessarily have to wait around that long to see your purchase be worthwhile. If you choose to sell your home, your solar panels will drive up the value of your home.

Knowing the average cost of solar installations can give you some context as you approach vendors and get quotes. You know what to expect and will be able to recognize when someone is trying to overcharge you.

If the idea of having $20,000 on hand to purchase solar panels feels impossible, don't worry. The good news is solar panel purchases often come with financing options.

You can get a solar loan, which will work like a mortgage or auto loan. You'll make a deposit and pay monthly installments on the loan for a predetermined period. Of course, loans come with interest, so it does mean you'll pay more for your solar panels in the long run.

Alternatively, you could also consider a solar lease. A solar lease, also sometimes called a power purchase agreement (PPA), is when you allow a third-party company to install solar panels on your roof. The company sells you the electricity produced from these panels at a rate typically 10-30% lower than 

A solar lease has some downsides (such as the fact that you never actually own your panels), so do your research before considering this option.

Whether you pay outright cash, finance, or lease your panels, it can be an excellent investment if you can afford it.

learn more ways to slash your energy bills

Now that we’ve covered the basics let’s take a look at some of the best solar companies:

 is a top-tier company that has been selling residential solar panels since 2011. The company offers a comprehensive approach to solar panels, giving customers everything from solar design to financing and maintenance.

Warranties are great and offered for 25 years

Installation isn't done in-house, but you can be connected with a Palmetto Partner for installation services

Active system monitoring services cost extra

 from over 200 reviews on the Better Business Bureau website. The average cost for solar panels from Palmetto Sour is estimated to be around $15,000 to $20,000.

2. Most Efficient Product: SunPower Solar

 was founded in 1985 and is proud of its long history. One of the company's taglines is "With nearly 40 years of dedicated solar experience, we're the only U.S.-based solar company that's been around longer than our 25-year warranty."

The company offers solar, backup battery, and electric vehicle (EV) charger installations.

Product and production guarantees on all solar panel installations

Panels have 20.9% to 22.8% efficiency ratings, which are higher than average for the solar panel industry

Higher than average cost compared to other options on the market

 from over 750 reviews on the Better Business Bureau website. The average cost for solar panels from SunPower Solar Sour is estimated to be around $24,000 to $36,000.

3. Best Customer Service: Blue Raven Solar

has only been around for ten years, but they’ve made impressive strides in that short time and now have over 2,200 team members. The company offers solar and backup battery installations, plus solar equipment monitoring.

Warranties are offered for 10 or 25 years

Installs SunPower Brand panels, which are very efficient

Reviews online complaints of aggressive sales tactics

 from over 1380 reviews on the Better Business Bureau website, which holds the highest rating out of all our picks on this list. The average cost for solar panels from Blue Raven Solar is estimated to be around $20,000 to $22,500.

Tesla Solar is probably the most well-known brand on this list. Tesla Solar operates under the branch of Tesla Energy, which is the "clean energy division" of Tesla. The Tesla solar panels are known for their aesthetic design. You can purchase traditional solar panels, solar roofing shingles, EV charging stations, and backup battery installations with Tesla Solar.

Price estimator online for transparent pricing

Some online reviews complain of poor customer service and long wait times for repairs

Tesla also has another option, known as Tesla Solar Roof. This option is much more innovative and has a sleeker-looking design compared to Tesla Solar. However, the Tesla Solar Roof is incredibly expensive, often coming at two to three times the price of a typical solar roof.

 from over 300 reviews on the Better Business Bureau website. As outlined above, Tesla Solar is the most affordable choice, but it comes at the cost of good customer service. The average price for solar panels from Tesla Solar is estimated at $16,000 to $23,000.

Working with a solar company is a significant decision, and being well-informed is crucial. Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about working with a solar company:

Look for companies with strong track records, 

, relevant certifications, and experience in the industry. It's also beneficial to compare quotes and services from multiple providers to ensure you get the best value and service.

What costs are involved in installing solar panels?

Costs can vary widely depending on your system's size, location, the quality of the panels, and additional equipment like inverters and batteries. Solar companies typically provide a detailed quote that includes the total installation cost, potential rebates, and incentives.

Are there any incentives or rebates available for solar panel installation?

Many regions offer solar panel installation

. These can significantly reduce the upfront cost. A reputable solar company will have up-to-date information on local and federal incentives and can assist in the application process.

How much money can I save by installing solar panels?

Savings vary based on your electricity usage, the size of your solar system, the cost of electricity in your area, and how much energy your system generates. Solar companies often provide estimates of potential savings during the consultation process.

Most solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years or more. However, their efficiency might gradually decrease over time. It's important to ask about the warranty and what it covers.

Will I still receive an electricity bill after installing solar panels?

Looking to buy solar panels soon? This guide can help. Find out what the best solar companies are in 2025 and what makes each one so great. 

The 4 Best Solar Companies in 2025 | PopularLiving 

The 4 Best Solar Companies in 2025

In 2020, the average US household spent roughly 

 in energy (wood, coal, district steam, solar thermal, and solar panels). Thanks to inflation, current figures are probably higher. Whether you’re racking your brains trying to figure out the most effective way to heat and cool an older home (I’m with you) or you’re simply trying not to go broke fueling your WFH lifestyle, there are plenty of ways to make your home more energy efficient.

While it’s true that the majority of America’s homes aren’t getting any younger, thanks to advancements in technology and information, it’s easier than ever to control your home’s environment to help you manage and save on energy costs.

Depending on your housing situation and budget, there are simple fixes to more long-term solutions to manage your household’s energy bills, keep your home safe, extend the longevity of your systems, and do your part for the environment. In this article, we will cover a few of those solutions.

Yes, you absolutely can hire a professional to perform an energy audit, but before you do, there are ways you can 

 on spot-checking common problem areas. Checking for air leaks, old appliances, manual operation systems that expend a lot of energy, and poor lighting situations is the first start to making your home’s energy complement your lifestyle not take away from it.

If you’re the lucky person who’s discovered what happens when you wait longer than a year to replace the air filter in your furnace or air conditioner–my condolences.

It’s the bane of every homeowner’s existence to realize you’ve accidentally forced your HVAC system to work overtime, costing you higher energy bills and quite possibly causing you to suck questionable substances 

 that can trigger allergies or lead to respiratory illnesses.

I’m not yelling at you; I’m coming from personal experience. I want to be better, too. Some rules of thumb for finding and replacing a filter:

Know which size you need for your HVAC system

. Most homes have a 1-inch filter. The thickness tells you how long you have before you need to replace the filter again.

Replace the filter every three to six months.

 Change filters more often (like once a month) if you have fur babies, live in a city with a lot of pollution, or have allergies or medical conditions.

 the better the filter filters substances.

, vary depending on household needs. A MERV 8 filter is generally recommended for most households.

MERV 13 is the highest you should go. It is known as a hospital-grade filter, eliminating different types of bacteria, 

Higher MERVs require the HVAC system to work harder. You may need to connect with an HVAC specialist to make any adjustments to accommodate better the filter you want.

Learn more about cleaning your air filter.

Older homes (the majority of homes that people live in across the US) are notorious for drafts–which are one of the biggest culprits of energy waste and heat loss. Making sure your home (walls, attics, chimneys, vents, and pipes) is properly insulated is one of the first recommendations experts and homeowners who have been there suggest in improving your home’s efficiency and comfort, not to mention combating high energy costs.

Fiberglass, spray foam, cellulose, concrete block. Not all insulation is the same, and there are A LOT OF OPINIONS on it. Depending on your application, budget, and where you live, there are different 

 to best withstand your home project and climate.

For example, fiberglass is one of the most common and cost-effective types of insulation for homes in colder climates, whereas spray foam insulation is the best for warmer ones. Avoid cellulose in wet, tropical climates, as it sucks moisture and can lead to mold.

I’ve watched enough YouTube videos to know I would probably save for and hire a licensed contractor who knows something about building codes, severe climate protocol, and animal infestation to do my insulation. Still, if you’re feeling knowledgeable, skilled, and confident, there are a lot of brave souls out there 

Air leaks are other notorious energy thieves. Want to know how much energy usage accounts for heat loss from air leaks? Yeah, so you’re not gonna like this, but it’s about 

. Not to mention, it’s not great for the 

Rule of thumb: if you can see light or feel air coming through–you should probably seal that up. I mean, it’s one of the easiest and most cost-effective fixes on this entire list, so why not?

Caulk and weatherstrip the nooks and crannies of your home to ensure better indoor air quality and cut costs on energy bills.

I’m not here to gloat, but the US has made 

 in our switch from incandescent light to LED lights in our homes, y’all. I won’t spend too much time harping on this one because it’s old news at this point, but if you haven’t already switched out the less efficient and cost-effective bulbs in your home, it’s not too late to jump on the bandwagon.

Even if you are wary of green-washed media, you will get your money’s worth out of LEDs, which tend to last up to 

 than their incandescent counterparts. Customers seem to rate 

 LED lights highly for their brightness and durability.

LED Christmas lights are also taking the world by storm, including 

, which allow you to get your festive fix while keeping your electric bills and energy consumption manageable.

Replace Old Systems with Energy Efficient Ones

I’m currently not being paid to recommend any brands in particular. Still, I’ve coordinated and edited enough 

 back in my day to say that if your water heater is older than 15 years old, it’s a good time to replace it.

. I know you’ve heard of them. You may be cautiously eyeballing smart technology like me. But, these systems actually help you obsess less about manual ways to save energy and worry about more important things in your home–like raising and supporting your family.

Smart thermostats basically make it so you don’t have to yell at your roommate or significant other to cut down on the number of lattes or pieces of avocado toast they consume every month. While you’re in between unimportant meetings, wiping drool from your toddler, or scooping shit from the backyard you got just for your dog, you can adjust the thermostat in your home at the touch of a button.

And somewhat importantly, depending on who you ask, smart thermostats are here to stay as long as the climate temperature rises.

 in your home and cool you down without forcing you to crank up the AC. At the same time, leaving your fan on when no one is in the room to enjoy its cooling abilities defeats the purpose of your cost-saving and environmental efforts. Enter your dad, who is here to remind you money doesn’t grow on trees.

If your home has poor air circulation, consider using or installing a high-efficiency ceiling fan (ENERGY STAR-rated fans are 

). Many fans have a switch on them that allows you to change the direction of the blade's spin to distribute cool air evenly and stop hot air from pooling in certain spots of the room. Stay cozy and make your energy work with you, not against you, in your own home.

See if You Qualify for Incentives and Rebate Programs

Sometimes, it pays to make energy-efficient home improvements. For example, did you know that if you elect to install heat pumps, biomass stoves, and boilers with at least a 75 percent thermal efficiency rating, you can claim up to 

Of course, there are some caveats about who can apply (new construction and rentals are ineligible), and you should be aware of how this impacts your 

Are you thinking about going solar? There are incentives for that, too. Take the federal solar energy income tax, for example, which allows you to claim a 

 on your taxes for installing PV solar panels or cells.

. From geothermal-heated homes to wind-powered ones, there’s a credit for everything, it seems. Be sure to learn more about what energy savings are available in your area.

This list is just a start to your journey to energy efficiency. If you’re a newbie, do not fret. There is SO much help across the internet, from experts who know what they’re talking about to regular homeowners who have learned the hard way on their own. 

 from PopularLiving on how to cut costs, improve indoor air quality, and combat climate concerns in a small but meaningful way.

Ways you’ve managed to save on energy through your methods and specialists.

What you’re currently paying in energy costs.

Green energy topics you want us to cover.

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How Does Solar Leasing Work? (Pros & Cons and How to Qualify)

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