Three ways to pay for solar — and which one fits you
There's no single right answer. Cash saves the most over 25 years, a loan lets you own with no money down, and a lease trades ownership for zero upfront cost. Here's the honest version of each.
Pay cash
Simplest math, biggest long-term savings
- You own the system outright from day one
- No interest or financing costs — best lifetime return
- You claim the federal tax credit and any incentives you qualify for
- Largest upfront cost
- Ties up money you might want for other projects
Finance with a loan (RENU)
Own your system with no money down
- You own the system and keep the tax credit and incentives you qualify for
- Colorado RENU loan: no money down, fixed rate, terms up to 20 years
- No lien on your home — the loan is secured by the equipment only
- Interest adds to the total cost over the loan term
- Approval depends on credit — rates and terms vary
Solar lease
No upfront cost — pay for the power, not the panels
- Typically little or no money down
- Under a typical lease, maintenance stays the system owner's responsibility
- A set monthly payment for solar power instead of a volatile utility bill
- You don't own the system, so the tax credit goes to the lessor
- Usually lower lifetime savings than owning
- Adds a step when you sell your home (the lease transfers to the buyer)
Tax credits and incentives depend on your individual tax situation — we'll walk you through what applies to you, but confirm specifics with your tax advisor. Financing terms come from the lender or lessor, not from Seed Solar, and change over time.
A quick rule of thumb
- If you have the cash and want the best lifetime return, pay cash and keep every dollar of savings.
- If you want to own but keep your cash, the Colorado RENU loan gets most homeowners to a monthly payment near — or below — what they were paying the utility.
- If you want zero upfront cost and zero maintenance responsibility, and you're comfortable not owning the system, a lease can make sense.
Not sure what solar would even save you? Start with our solar savings calculator — then we'll run the real numbers for each payment option in your free quote.
On Xcel Energy? Income-qualified households can get an upfront rebate of up to $30,000 — which changes the math on every option above. Check if you qualify in 60 seconds.
See all three options priced for your home
Every quote we send shows cash, loan, and lease side by side — same system, same production, honest numbers. You pick what fits.