Choosing to go solar is a powerful investment in your home and the environment, and the right financing option can make all the difference in maximizing your savings. Whether you prioritize a $0 upfront cost, achieving the highest possible return on investment (ROI), or simply reducing your monthly electric bill, there is a solution tailored to your financial goals.
Our primary options fall into three categories: immediate ownership via Cash Purchase or Solar Loan (allowing you to claim the significant Federal Tax Credit and build home equity), or a low-commitment, pay-per-use plan like a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), where a third-party owns and maintains the system. Review the options below to find the perfect path to energy independence.
California Solar Financing Options
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is a financial arrangement where a third-party developer owns, operates, and maintains a solar energy system on a customer’s property. The customer then agrees to purchase the electricity produced by that system for a set price (per kilowatt-hour, or kWh) over a long-term contract.
Sun Light & Power's residential PPA offering is the premier no-money-down solar solution for Bay Area homeowners facing unprecedented utility rate increases.
With PG&E rates rising over 110% in the past decade and stabilizing only in late 2025, market conditions favor immediate customer acquisition through compelling value messaging.
Interested in learning more about Sun Light & Power's PPA Program?
Cash Purchase
A Cash Purchase is the most straightforward way to acquire a solar energy system. The customer pays the full cost of the system upfront to the installer. While this requires the largest initial capital outlay, it offers the highest potential for long-term financial return. The customer immediately owns the asset.
Additionally, all energy produced is truly free, maximizing lifetime savings and providing the greatest hedge against rising utility rates. The system also contributes most significantly to the increase in home value, and there are no complex long-term contracts to worry about when selling the property. The primary drawback is the high upfront cost, which not all homeowners can afford.
Solar Bank Loan (or Home Equity Loan)
Financing a solar system through a Solar Bank Loan or leveraging a Home Equity Loan allows a customer to own the system without the massive upfront expenditure of a cash purchase. Instead of paying a utility-based rate per kWh (like a PPA), the customer makes fixed monthly loan payments to a bank or lender.
Once the loan is paid off, all electricity generated by the system is free. This option balances the financial benefits of ownership with manageable monthly payments, making it a popular choice for maximizing Return on Investment (ROI) while keeping initial costs low. The primary considerations are the loan's interest rate, term length, and the customer's credit score.
As a GoGreen Financing contractor, Sun Light & Power can offer financing for bundled solar PV + battery storage, EV chargers, and battery storage for pre-existing solar! Financing can include panel upgrades, roof repair, battery enclosure mitigation, permit costs and other necessary work. For solar + storage projects, there is a new lending cap of $75,000 and terms to 20 years.
Interested in GoGreen Home, Business, or Multifamily? Learn more about the program's eligibility and guidelines here.
California Solar Incentives
Solar Storage Credit offered by MCE (Marin Clean Energy)
Homeowners with solar installations are eligible for programs like the Solar Storage Credit offered by MCE (Marin Clean Energy) present an excellent opportunity to further incentivize sustainable practices. By automating battery discharge from 4-9 p.m. and maintaining a reasonable battery reserve, participants can earn up to $20 per month in bill credits! This savings demonstrates MCE's commitment to rewarding renewable energy adopters.
Do You Have Questions About Solar Panel Financing?
Call Sun Light & Power for answers today. We’re here to help make your solar journey as smooth as possible.
Sun Light & Power is a 100% employee-owned Benefit Corp, committed to being a force for good in our community. Our goal is to help California homeowners achieve their dream of going solar and ensure they have an exceptional customer experience.
Call Sun Light & Power at 510.845.2997 or contact us online to get started.
Why Go Solar?
When it comes to combining solar energy with your business operation, think of solar as an investment that actually provides a return. A custom designed solar PV system or solar thermal hot water heating system will reduce your operating expenses, protect you from volatile utility costs, show your commitment to the environment and the green business movement, and can even increase the reliability of your electrical system.
More Solar Projects
Here are some examples of recent projects we are honored to have been chosen to complete for our customers.
