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Solar SME:

Residential & Commercial
Solar Financing

Choose the Best Option That Fits Your Budget & Energy Goals

Investing in solar energy is not just about sustainability, it’s about empowering yourself with energy independence, long-term savings, and increased property value. Solar SME understands that one of the biggest hurdles in going solar is the upfront cost. That’s why we offer flexible, customer-focused solar financing options for both residential and commercial customers. Whether you want full ownership or prefer a low-down-payment plan, we have solutions that fit your needs.

Why Solar Financing Matters?

Solar panels are a long-term investment that can significantly reduce your energy costs, increase property value, and protect against rising electricity prices. However, the upfront cost can sometimes be a challenge. Solar SME’s financing solutions make solar affordable for every budget.

Solar Ownership:

Owning your solar system outright is one of the most effective ways to maximize savings and control over your energy. When you own your system:

  • Eliminate monthly energy bills or significantly reduce them.
  • Claim federal, state, and local incentives, like tax credits and rebates.
  • Home or business property’s value increases, making it a reliable investment.
  • Complete system control, from maintenance scheduling to energy usage.

Third-Party Ownership (TPO) Financing:

Not everyone can afford the upfront cost of purchasing a solar system outright. With TPO, a solar provider owns and maintains the solar system on your property, while you pay for the energy it produces. This approach allows you to enjoy the benefits of solar energy without the financial and maintenance responsibilities of ownership. There are two types of TPO financing:

1- Solar Lease: Fixed Monthly Payment

With a solar lease, you “rent” the solar panels installed on your roof. You pay a fixed monthly fee for the use of the system, regardless of how much electricity it produces. This approach is perfect for homeowners, renters or businesses who want predictable payments and minimal responsibility.

Benefits of a Solar Lease:

01- $0 Upfront Cost:

Start using solar energy immediately without large upfront payments.

02- Predictable Monthly Expenses:

Avoid fluctuations in energy bills by paying a fixed monthly rate.

03- Maintenance-Free:

The solar provider handles maintenance, repairs, and system monitoring. Lock in low energy rates with a solar lease.

2- Solar PPA Financing: Use Solar Power with $0 Down

A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is another popular TPO option. Instead of paying a fixed monthly amount, you pay for the electricity your solar system generates at a predetermined rate, which is typically lower than your utility rate.

Benefits of a Solar PPA:

01- Lower Electricity Costs:

Pay less for the energy you use compared to traditional utility rates.

02- $0 Down Payment:

The system owner ensures solar panels perform at their best.

03- Guaranteed Performance:

Many PPAs include performance guarantees, so you know exactly what you’ll save. Paying more than $100/month to your electric company? Explore our PPA Programs

Solar Loans: Flexible Financing with Immediate Ownership

For those who want to own their solar system but prefer manageable monthly payments, solar loans are a smart choice. Solar loans allow you to finance the upfront cost of your system while taking advantage of federal tax credits and local incentives.

Types of Solar Loans:

01- Low-Interest Loans:

Pay the cost over several years with minimal interest.

02- Zero-Down Loans:

Start saving immediately with no upfront payment.

03- Customized Terms:

Flexible repayment options to match your budget.

How to Choose the Right Financing Option?

Choosing the right solar financing plan depends on your goals, budget, and preferences. Solar SME
financing experts can help you select the best plan.

Financing Option
Ideal For
Key Benefits

Ownership

Homeowners/Business aims to own the solar system

Tax incentives, long-term savings, increased property value

Solar Lease

Homeowners/Businesses who want $0 upfront

No maintenance, predictable monthly payments

PPA

Homes or Businesses aiming to mitigate energy crisis without investment.

Pay for energy generated, immediate savings

Solar Loans

System ownership with affordable payments

Flexible terms, tax credits, long-term savings

Not Sure Which Option Fits You? Talk to our Solar Financing Expert Now!

Solar SME is committed to making solar energy accessible, affordable, and rewarding. Whether you choose ownership, a TPO model, or a solar loan, our financing solutions are designed to fit your unique needs.

Explore Your Financing Options

Frequently Asked Questions

Solar panels rarely need to be repaired due to their strength and durability. They can withstand against some of the most inclement weather conditions even including hurricanes.
But if conditions are bad enough, sometimes repairs need to take place, which should be covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy.

Solar panels are built to be durable, but if they’re ever damaged, weather is typically the culprit.
Your area might be prone to heavy rain, wind, snow or something else, but it takes much more than that to damage a system.
Although rare, in extreme instances such as hail from a severe storm or hurricane, panels can crack or otherwise be damaged.

You’ll know if your solar panel is broken if physical damage, like a severe crack, is noticeable. However, solar panels can still function with less severe cracks.
The most reliable way for you to know if your solar panel is broken is to check their energy output during the day and see whether it’s less than normal. Lower output indicates something isn’t working properly.

Solar panel repair work varies depending on the problem.
Sometimes a part needs to be reattached, although this is rare. Usually, your solar provider will give you a replacement instead. If you have a bad crack, your provider will generally replace the glass top without interfering with the wiring beneath.

It’s best to use either a hose or low-pressure sprayer with soapy water to thoroughly remove any buildup of dirt, debris or snow. If cleaning in freezing temperatures, make sure the water you use is warm so it doesn’t freeze on the panels.
When cleaning your solar panels, avoid pressure washers to prevent damage to the panels.

The maintenance cost of solar panels varies depending on your specific provider, whether the issue falls under your warranty, and the type of work you need done. If you’re experiencing issues or would like a quote for additional services, please contact our Service Department.

If a solar panel cracks, don’t try to fix it yourself. contact a local solar repair service company near you. Thick, broken glass is dangerous to remove yourself, especially when exposed wiring could cause electrical risks. Your panels are also likely installed on your roof, which makes trying to fix them even more dangerous while at risky heights.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most homeowners can choose from solar loans, solar leases, PPAs (Power Purchase Agreements), and cash ownership. Each option varies in upfront cost, ownership benefits, and monthly payments.

In both options you don’t own the system, but with a lease, you pay a fixed monthly amount; with a PPA, you pay for the actual power your system produces at a set per-kWh rate.

Yes. Many financing programs, including solar leases, PPAs, and some solar loans, offer $0 Down options to start saving without upfront investment.

If you choose cash or loan ownership, you typically qualify for the ITC. You do not qualify for the credit under lease or PPA agreements because you don’t own the system.

Most lenders require a minimum credit score of 600–650. Higher scores may qualify you for better interest rates and longer loan terms.

Yes. Many leases and PPAs increase by 1%–3% annually. Some companies also offer 0% escalator plans depending on customer preference and utility rates.

Solar loans commonly range from 10 to 25 years, allowing you to choose between lower monthly payments or shorter, interest-saving terms.

Most solar loans have no prepayment penalties, meaning you can pay off the remaining balance anytime and save on interest.

Ownership models (cash or loan) usually qualify for most incentives, while leases and PPAs often do not. Local incentive rules vary, so checking your specific program is recommended.

Financing reduces or eliminates upfront cost. While cash offers the highest lifetime savings, financing allows you to start saving immediately, often with payments lower than your utility bill.

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