Solar guide · Updated Oct 17, 2026
$0 down solar: loans vs. leases vs. PPAs
You can put solar panels on your roof without paying anything at installation. There are three ways to do it, and they lead to very different results over 20 years.
Live Oct 17, 2026
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The three ways to go solar with nothing down
| $0-down solar loan | Solar lease | Power purchase agreement (PPA) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who owns the panels | You | The solar company | The solar company |
| What you pay | Fixed loan payment | Fixed monthly rent | A rate per kWh of solar power |
| Yearly increases | No | Often 1% to 3% | Often 1% to 3% |
| Incentives and rebates | Yours | Kept by the owner | Kept by the owner |
| Maintenance | Your responsibility (warranties help) | Usually included | Usually included |
| Selling your home | Pay off or transfer the loan | Buyer must take over the lease | Buyer must take over the PPA |
What changed in 2026
The 30% federal tax credit for homeowners who buy solar (Section 25D) ended for systems paid for after December 31, 2025. Companies that own panels under a lease or PPA can still claim business credits, which is one reason leases and PPAs are being promoted heavily.
In California, the main state rebate for home batteries (SGIP) has fully reserved its general budget, with only income-qualified programs left on a waitlist. Check your utility and state for current rebates before you sign.
How to choose
- Choose a loan if you plan to stay in the home for years and want the savings to grow once it is paid off.
- Choose a lease or PPA if you want no maintenance worries and lower risk, and you are comfortable with the yearly increase.
- Skip it if your roof needs replacing soon or is heavily shaded. Fix the roof first.
Questions to ask every installer
- What will I pay in year 1 and year 20?For leases and PPAs, ask for the escalator and the total over the contract.
- How much will my power bill drop?Ask for an estimate based on your actual usage and your utility’s current export rate.
- What happens when I sell?Ask how a transfer works and whether there are fees.
- What is covered and for how long?Get the panel, inverter, workmanship and roof-penetration warranties in writing.
Questions people ask
Is $0 down solar a good deal?
It can be if the monthly cost is below your current power bill and stays below it over time. Compare the yearly escalator and the total cost over the contract, not just the first payment.
Can I still get the federal solar tax credit in 2026?
Not as a homeowner buying solar. The residential credit ended for expenditures after December 31, 2025. Companies that own systems under leases and PPAs may still use business credits.
Does a solar lease make it harder to sell my house?
It can. The buyer usually has to qualify for and take over the lease or PPA, which adds a step to the sale.