Solar financing in 2026, explained plainly.
A lot of solar companies are still advertising last year's tax rules. Here is what is actually available right now.
Which one fits you?
- You have the cash and you plan to stay ten years or more
- Cash purchase. Nothing else beats it on lifetime cost.
- You want to own the system but not write a large check
- Solar loan. You keep the asset and the resale advantage.
- You want a lower bill without owning equipment
- Lease or PPA. Someone else carries the maintenance and the hardware risk.
- You may sell within three to five years
- Talk to us first. A lease transfer can complicate a closing more than people expect.
About the federal tax credit
The 30% federal residential solar tax credit (Section 25D) ended for systems paid for after December 31, 2025. It does not carry over to leases: with a lease or a power purchase agreement, the finance company owns the system and may claim a different, commercial credit under Section 48E. That one is being phased out as well. For a system whose construction begins after July 4, 2026, it applies only if the system is in service by December 31, 2027. Tax and financing details on this page are general. We will confirm exact numbers for your situation during your consultation, and you should confirm them with your own tax professional.
Get the number before you pick a path.
The financing question is easier once you know what your system costs and produces. Both come out of the free assessment.