New Jersey, one of the strongest solar markets in the country, has been troubled by a budget freeze imposed by new Governor Chris Christie. Among the frozen assets are $158 million from the New Jersey’s Clean Energy Fund. If these funds are not released back into operation, the CEF predicts lower solar rebate levels for [...]

Geoscape Solar, a New Jersey-based solar installation company, today announced New Jersey’s first residential solar leasing program. The new program will enable homeowners to get solar panels installed with no upfront cost. “The benefits of solar energy sell themselves,” said Jeffrey Chavkin, president and co-founder, Geoscape Solar. “What customers need are clear and concise explanations [...]

California utility Pacific Gas & Electric Corporation (PG&E) announced yesterday a deal with SolarCity that will enable homeowners and businesses to install solar energy systems with small or no upfront investment. Instead of owning the systems, customers pay a monthly fee to SolarCity, which owns the solar panels and can sell the electricity they generate. [...]

Solar Phoenix provides a solar leasing program for city residents, a collaboration of the city, National Bank of Arizona, APS, and SolarCity.

A new Nevada law is expected to increase the number of solar PV installations in the state by making it easier for third parties to finance the installation of renewable energy systems. Effective since October 1, Assembly Bill 186 clarifies the definition of “third-party ownership” as it pertains to the leasing of solar panels, wind [...]

Colorado residents will now be able to take advantage of solar leasing through SunRun.

Xcel Energy in Colorado, after cutting their solar rebate heavily over the past year, is asking the state to allow them to extend the solar rebate to third parties in leasing programs.

With new solar leasing programs announced all the time, we take a closer look at the benefits and drawbacks presented by this financing option.