What are my financial options for going solar?
As the landscape of solar continues to evolve, Solarize Virginia recognizes the importance of flexibility and affordability. Solarize 2026 will offer a variety of financial options for homeowners who want to benefit from having a solar system installed, but may not be able to purchase it outright without the benefit of the federal tax credit.
Options for residential solar adoption include traditional outright system purchase, solar leasing, and solar purchase agreements. You can read about each of these options down below, and hit the button at any point if you’d like to reach out with questions.
And remember, in addition to these options, Solarize will continue to offer:
Vetted installers
Competitive, discounted per watt negotiated pricing
Webinars and other educational opportunities
Support and advocacy throughout the process
Traditional outright system purchase (with or without financing)We offer a range of solutions designed to meet your needs—whether you're just getting started or scaling something bigger. Everything is tailored to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Solar leasingA solar lease is a third-party ownership model allowing homeowners to install solar panels with $0 to low upfront costs, paying a fixed monthly "rent" for 20–25 years. The leasing company handles all maintenance and repairs. The payments typically increase each year, but the increase is usually less than the increase of electric rates. The rate at which your solar lease payment will rise is specified in the escalator clause of your contract, with most escalator rates ranging from 1% to 5% annually.
In cases like this, the lease holder owns the SRECs. There are set monthly payments not tied to the production of the system, which is good for budgeting purposes.
After 5 years, you have the option to purchase the system from the leasing company. At the end of the lease term, you typically have the option to:
Remove the equipment at the company's expense.
Renew the lease agreement.
Purchase the system at fair market value.
Some Additional Common Questions Include…
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With a lease, there is less risk, because the lease holder is responsible for maintenance and repair of the system. In the case of a purchased system, there are installers who will service systems they did not install.
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These incentives are only available to homeowners who purchase their system with cash or financing.
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Not all providers support solar leases, although most of the larger providers do accept leases. Your installer will let you know upfront if your local provider does not accept leases.
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If you sell your home, the rights and payment system maybe carried over to the new owner. Additionally, solar panels typically add value to your home, and leases can be transferred easily to qualifying buyers.
Feeling ready to go solar? Sign up with us for free to get started.
Solar Power Purchase AgreementNOTE: At this time, Power Purchase Agreements are not available for market rate residential projects in Virginia. If you are a business and would like more information about PPAs, email us at info@solarizeva.org)