Solar PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) charges a per-kWh rate for the energy your roof generates. No upfront cost; you do not own the panels. Solar lease is a fixed monthly payment for use of the panels. Solar loan finances the system purchase. You own the panels and claim the 30 percent ITC. Highest 25-year savings but requires upfront credit qualification.
Who owns the panels matters
With a PPA or lease, the installer owns the panels. You pay for the energy or the use of the equipment. The 30 percent ITC goes to the installer, who passes some of the benefit through pricing.
With a loan or cash, you own the panels. You claim the ITC on your tax return. You own the asset and any future value.
What happens if you move
PPA: assign or transfer to the new homeowner. Cancellation often requires payoff of remaining contract value.
Lease: similar, transfer or payoff. The fixed monthly payment continues regardless of who occupies the home.
Loan: pay off remaining loan at sale or transfer to buyer. You own the system and capture its appraised value in the home sale.
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Quick answers from the editorial desk
Who owns the panels on a PPA?
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What is an escalator clause?
Further reading