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Comparison • Solar Panels

Solar Lease vs Solar Loan

A plain-English comparison of solar lease and solar loan for homeowners planning energy upgrades.

Quick comparison

Solar Lease
Solar Loan
Ownership
Usually third party owned
Homeowner usually owns system
Payments
Lease payment or PPA terms
Loan repayment
Incentives
May be retained by owner of system
May be available to homeowner depending on rules
Review carefully
Escalator, transfer terms
Interest, fees, lien/UCC terms

How to read this comparison

This comparison is designed to help you ask better questions. The right choice depends on your home, budget, comfort expectations and local rules.

Decision tip

Ask each provider to explain not only what they recommend, but what they ruled out and why. That answer often reveals whether the proposal fits your actual goal.

Important: Home energy upgrades can involve electrical work, permits, building codes, utility rules and safety risks. Use this page as a planning aid and confirm details with licensed professionals and official documents.