"Free" Solar Panels: How to Get Solar With $0 Down in the U.S.
Discover legitimate ways to get free solar panels installed with $0 down. Compare no upfront cost solar options—solar loans, solar leases, and solar PPAs—to start saving on your energy bills.
The Truth About "Free Solar" (2025)
When you see ads for free solar panels, $0 down solar, or no money down solar, it's important to understand what "free" actually means. In reality, free solar typically refers to zero-down solar options where you pay nothing upfront to get solar panels installed on your home—but you're not receiving the panels for free in the sense of ownership.
What People Mean by "Free Solar"
- •Solar panels for free: $0 upfront installation, not free ownership
- •Free solar installation / free solar panel installation: No upfront payment at installation day
- •No cost solar / no upfront cost solar: Finance options that eliminate initial cash requirements
- •Can you get solar panels for free: Yes with $0-down financing, or through rare income-qualified programs
Most "$0 upfront" solar offers fall into one of three categories: solar loans, solar leases, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Understanding the lease vs PPA vs loan differences is critical, as each has different financial implications and ownership structures. These zero-down solar options let you go solar without thousands upfront, but the long-term costs and savings vary significantly.
Some states also offer legitimate low-income solar programs where qualified homeowners can receive significantly subsidized or even no-cost solar installations, but these are income-restricted and not available to everyone.
The good news: with the right financing option, you can go solar without paying thousands of dollars upfront and still save money on your electricity bills. But it's crucial to understand the differences between ownership and third-party ownership models to choose what's best for your situation.
Zero-Down Solar Financing Options Explained
Discover the different ways you can go solar with no upfront costs. Each program has unique benefits to help you start saving on energy bills immediately.
$0-Down Solar Loans
Finance your solar system with no money down. These loans allow you to own your solar panels from day one while spreading payments over 10-25 years. You keep all tax credits and incentives, and your monthly loan payment is often less than your previous electric bill.
Best for: Homeowners who want to own their system and maximize long-term savings
Solar Lease & PPA Market
With a solar lease or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), a third party owns the solar panels on your roof. You pay a fixed monthly lease payment or only for the electricity the panels produce, usually at a lower rate than utility prices. No maintenance costs or system ownership required.
Best for: Homeowners who want no maintenance responsibilities and predictable payments
State-Supported Loan Programs
Many states offer special low-interest or zero-interest solar loan programs to encourage renewable energy adoption. Programs like Connecticut's Smart-E Loans, Massachusetts' Mass Solar Loan, and New York's NY-Sun provide favorable terms, reduced interest rates, and simplified application processes backed by state governments.
Best for: Homeowners in participating states looking for government-backed financing with competitive rates
Low-Income Grant Programs
Specialized programs designed to make solar accessible to low and moderate-income households. Programs like California's Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing (SOMAH), Illinois' Solar for All, and Washington D.C.'s Solar for All provide grants, rebates, or fully-funded installations for qualifying households. These programs often cover most or all installation costs.
Best for: Households meeting income requirements who want free or heavily subsidized solar installations
Ownership vs Third-Party Ownership
Direct Ownership
With direct ownership, you own the solar panels outright through either a cash purchase or a solar loan. Even with a $0-down solar loan, you own the system from day one and benefit from all tax credits, rebates, and increased home value. How do you pay for solar panels? With ownership, you pay either cash upfront or make monthly solar financing payments, similar to a car loan.
Best for: Homeowners who qualify for the tax credit and want maximum savings over time.
Third-Party Ownership
With third-party ownership (through a solar lease or solar PPA), a solar company owns the panels on your roof. Who pays for solar panels in this model? The third party pays all upfront costs and owns the system—you simply pay them a monthly lease payment or per-kWh rate for the electricity. This provides no upfront cost solar installation with zero maintenance responsibility.
Best for: Homeowners who can't use the tax credit or prefer zero responsibility for maintenance.
Solar Leases (Renting Option)
How a Solar Lease Works
A solar lease is essentially renting solar panels for your home. With $0 down solar, a solar company installs panels on your roof at no upfront cost solar to you. You then pay a fixed monthly lease payment (typically $50-$150) for 20-25 years, regardless of how much electricity the panels produce. The solar company owns the system, claims all tax credits and incentives, and handles maintenance.
Pros of Solar Leases
- •Predictable monthly payments make budgeting easy
- •Zero upfront investment or down payment required
- •Company handles all repairs and maintenance
- •Immediate electricity bill savings
⚠Cons of Solar Leases
- •Lower total savings vs. owning
- •You don't get system ownership benefits
- •Selling a house with solar lease can be complicated—buyer must qualify for transfer solar lease
- •Contract typically lasts 20-25 years
- •Lease payments may increase annually (escalator clause)
What's the Catch with Free Solar Panels?
When you see offers for what's the catch with free solar panels, here's the reality with leases:
- •Long-term contract commitment: You're locked into 20-25 years of payments
- •Complications when selling: Transfer process can delay sales or narrow buyer pool
- •Escalator clauses: Annual payment increases reduce long-term savings
- •Total cost vs ownership: You may pay $15,000-$30,000+ over 25 years without ever owning the system
Bottom line: A solar lease provides no money down solar access with predictable costs, but you'll save less money over time compared to ownership. Credit requirements vary by provider; leases/PPAs can be more flexible than loans but still require credit approval. Review solar lease pros and cons carefully and understand transfer requirements if you might sell your home.
Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs)
How a PPA Works
A power purchase agreement (PPA) or solar PPA is a type of solar energy plan similar to a lease, but instead of paying a fixed monthly amount, you pay per kWh solar—meaning you only pay for the electricity the panels actually produce. The solar company installs panels with $0 down, owns the system, and sells you the solar electricity at a per-kWh rate (typically $0.08-$0.15/kWh) that's lower than your utility rate.
The per-kWh rate in a PPA usually includes an escalator—an annual escalator clause (typically 1-3% per year) that increases your rate over the 20-25 year contract. This PPA escalator means your solar electricity cost rises each year, so it's critical to compare the long-term cost trajectory against your utility's rate increases.
Pros of Solar PPAs
- •Pay only for electricity produced (performance-based)
- •Zero upfront investment
- •Company handles all maintenance and performance monitoring
- •Lower per-kWh rate than utility (at least initially)
- •Immediate savings on electricity bills
⚠Cons of Solar PPAs
- •You don't receive the federal tax credit or incentives
- •Lower savings vs. ownership
- •Escalator increases your rate annually over 20-25 years
- •Can complicate home sales (buyer must qualify)
- •Not available in all states
Key Questions to Ask Before Signing a PPA
- •What is the per-kWh rate? How does it compare to my current utility rate?
- •What is the PPA escalator / annual escalator? How much will my rate increase each year?
- •What are the buyout terms? Can I purchase the system mid-contract, and what's the cost?
- •What is the transfer process? How difficult is it to transfer to a buyer if I sell my home?
- •What is the total 20-year cost? Include all escalator increases
Lease vs PPA vs Loan: Which is Best?
The choice between a lease vs PPA vs loan depends on your financial situation and goals. Here's how these no upfront cost solar panels options compare:
Solar Loan (Ownership): Pay monthly loan payments but own the system from day one. Best for maximum long-term savings and full system ownership.
Solar Lease (Fixed Payment): Pay a fixed monthly amount regardless of production. Predictable costs with zero maintenance responsibility. You never own the system. Typical 20-year total paid: $15,000-$30,000 with $10,000-$25,000 in net savings.
Solar PPA (Per-kWh Payment): Pay only for electricity produced at a per-kWh rate (with annual escalator). Performance-based pricing, zero maintenance. You never own the system. Typical 20-year total paid: $15,000-$35,000 (depending on escalator) with $10,000-$25,000 in net savings.
Bottom line: For zero out of pocket solar, loans provide the highest long-term value if you can use the tax credit, while leases/PPAs offer simpler arrangements with lower savings.
Bottom line: Review PPA pros and cons carefully. Always ask about the escalator rate and compare 20-year total costs against a solar loan to see which gives you better value.
Solar Loans (Ownership with No Money Down)
How a Solar Loan Works
A solar loan or $0-down solar loan lets you go solar for $0 out of pocket and own your solar system from day one without paying thousands upfront. You finance the system cost (typically $15,000-$30,000) over 12-25 years with monthly payments, similar to a car loan or mortgage. With solar financing, you own the panels and benefit from all incentives and increased home value. Solar loans can make affordable solar panels a reality for homeowners who want ownership benefits without large upfront costs. Your monthly loan payment often equals or is less than your old utility bill, resulting in immediate savings that grow as utility rates increase.
Pros of Solar Loans
- •Own the system from day one with $0 down
- •Own the system from day one
- •Maximum long-term savings—often $20,000-$60,000 over system life
- •Studies suggest owned systems can add value to your home's resale price
- •No escalator—payments stay the same or decrease after payoff
- •Easier home sale (no lease transfer required)
⚠Considerations for Solar Loans
- •Requires credit check (typically 650+ FICO score)
- •You're responsible for maintenance (though systems are low-maintenance)
- •Must be able to use the tax credit (requires tax liability)
- •Monthly payment commitment (though often lower than old utility bill)
Bottom line: A solar loan provides the best of both worlds—$0 upfront cost plus full ownership benefits. For most homeowners who can qualify for the federal tax credit, a $0-down solar loan offers significantly higher savings than a lease or PPA over the system's 25+ year life. Review solar loan pros and cons and compare total 20-year costs across all financing options.
Community Solar Program (No Rooftop Required)
What is Community Solar?
A community solar program lets you benefit from solar energy without installing panels on your roof. Instead, you subscribe to a shared solar farm (often located miles away) and receive community solar bill credits on your utility bill for your portion of the electricity produced. This is one of the best solar alternatives for renters, homeowners with shaded roofs, or those who can't install solar rooftop systems due to roof condition, HOA restrictions, or building ownership.
Benefits of Community Solar
- •No rooftop installation required—perfect for renters or unsuitable roofs
- •Often no upfront cost to subscribe
- •Immediate bill savings (typically 5-15% off electricity costs)
- •No maintenance, repair, or insurance responsibilities
- •Can cancel or transfer subscription when you move
- •Support clean energy without property ownership requirements
How Community Solar Bill Credits Work
Each month, you receive community solar bill credits on your utility bill proportional to your share of the solar farm's production. These credits offset your regular electricity charges. You typically pay the community solar provider a subscription fee that's lower than your credited amount, resulting in net savings.
Example: If your share produces $100 in credits and you pay $90 to the community solar provider, you save $10 that month.
Important to Know
Community solar is not "free panels"—it's a subscription service with no upfront cost in most cases. Savings are typically smaller than owning rooftop solar (5-15% vs. 50-100%), but it's accessible to far more people. Availability varies by state—currently available in about 20 states including NY, MA, IL, MN, CO, and FL.
Bottom line: If solar rooftop installation isn't possible for you, a community solar program provides an excellent alternative to support clean energy and save money. It's a great option for renters, condo owners, or anyone with an unsuitable roof for panels.
State and Local "Free Solar" Programs
Important: These programs are NOT the same as $0-down leases or PPAs offered by solar companies. Government solar programs and low-income solar programs are grants or heavily subsidized installations for qualifying households, often based on income limits. Availability varies significantly by state and city, and most have waitlists.
Some states and utilities offer genuine free solar program initiatives that provide no-cost solar panels (or deeply subsidized installations) to low-to-moderate income households. These are typically funded by state renewable energy funds, utility programs, or federal grants and are designed to expand solar access to families who couldn't otherwise afford it.
Examples of Active State Programs
SOMAH (California) - Solar on Multifamily Affordable Housing
In California, SOMAH provides solar installations for multifamily affordable housing properties at no cost to residents, funded by utility ratepayers. Tenants benefit from reduced electricity bills without any payment or ownership responsibility. Part of broader California solar incentives for low-income communities.
Illinois Solar for All
Illinois Solar for All program provides free or heavily subsidized solar to income-qualified households (typically 80% AMI or below). One of the most comprehensive Illinois solar incentives programs, offering both rooftop and community solar options for low-income residents.
Connecticut Smart-E Loans (Financing Example)
Connecticut's Smart-E Loan program offers low-interest financing for solar installations, making solar more affordable through state-backed loans with favorable terms. Not a grant program, but helps moderate-income families access solar with reduced financing costs.
Low-Income Solar Programs
Many states offer low-income solar programs that provide free or heavily discounted solar installations to qualifying households (typically 80% of area median income or below). Contact your state energy office for solar incentives by state eligibility.
State Solar Grants
Some states offer state solar grants or rebates that can cover a significant portion of system costs for income-qualified families. These are typically first-come, first-served with limited annual funding. Check solar panel incentives by state for your location.
How to find programs: Check with your state energy office, local utility company, and community action agencies. Be wary of scams—legitimate government solar programs never require upfront payments or high-pressure sales tactics. Our solar advisors can help you identify legitimate programs in your area.
Free Roof Replacement with Solar Panels (Myth vs Reality)
The claim: You've probably seen ads promising "free roof replacement with solar panels" or "get a new roof free when you go solar." This is one of the most misleading solar marketing tactics. Here's the truth.
There is no such thing as a truly free roof replacement bundled with solar. What these offers actually mean is that some contractors bundle roof replacement costs into your solar financing, spreading the payment over 20-25 years. You're paying for both—the cost is just hidden in higher monthly payments or system price.
What "Free Roof" Offers Really Mean
- •Bundled Financing: Roof replacement cost ($8,000-$20,000) is added to your solar loan principal, increasing your monthly payments
- •Contractor Promotions: Some installers offer discounted or included roof work as a sales incentive, but this is factored into higher system pricing
- •Insurance Claims: If storm damage requires a roof, insurance might cover replacement—but this has nothing to do with "free solar"
Red Flags with "Free Roof" Offers
- ⚠Contractor won't provide itemized pricing showing roof vs. solar costs separately
- ⚠Total monthly payment is suspiciously high compared to solar-only quotes
- ⚠Vague about roof warranty, materials used, or installation quality standards
- ⚠High-pressure tactics claiming "this offer expires today"
Smart Approach to Roof + Solar
If your roof needs replacement before solar installation (typically if it has less than 10-15 years of life left), here's the right approach:
- Get separate quotes for roof and solar from licensed contractors
- Request itemized pricing showing each cost component
- Verify warranties for both roof and solar work independently
- Consider timing: Replace roof first if needed, then add solar—or finance both separately to understand true costs
Bottom line: There's no magical free roof replacement with solar panels. If you need both, get transparent itemized quotes so you understand exactly what you're paying for. Reputable installers will clearly break down all costs and financing terms without using misleading "free roof" language.
Solar Panel Scams & How to Spot Legit Offers
Warning: The solar industry has its share of bad actors using deceptive marketing, predatory contracts, and outright solar scams. Many homeowners ask, "Are free solar panels a scam?" The answer: legitimate $0-down solar exists, but scam artists exploit the "free" messaging. Here's how to protect yourself.
Common Solar Scams & Red Flags
- ⚠"Government is giving away free panels": No federal program gives homeowners free solar panels. This is a common lie to generate leads.
- ⚠Fake utility affiliation: Scammers pretend to represent your utility company or a government agency. Always verify independently.
- ⚠Upfront payment demands: Legitimate installers don't require full payment before installation. Payments should be milestone-based.
- ⚠Extreme time pressure: "This deal expires today" or "only 3 slots left in your zip code" are high-pressure tactics.
- ⚠Unrealistic savings promises: Claims like "eliminate your electric bill 100%" or "guaranteed $50,000 savings" without seeing your usage.
- ⚠Hidden contract terms: Refusing to provide written quotes, burying escalator clauses, or vague about who owns equipment and incentives.
- ⚠No local presence: Out-of-state company with no verifiable local office or references in your area.
- ⚠Unlicensed contractors: Can't provide contractor license number, insurance proof, or bonding documentation.
How to Identify Legitimate Solar Companies
- Proper licensing & insurance: Verify contractor license, liability insurance, workers comp
- Experience: Minimum 3-5 years in business, hundreds of installations
- Certifications: NABCEP certification, manufacturer training credentials
- Local Presence: Nearby office for service, familiar with local permits/utilities
Questions to Ask Before Signing
- •What is your contractor license number? (Verify with state board)
- •Who owns the solar system—me or a third party?
- •Who claims the federal tax credit and state incentives?
- •What is the total 20-year cost including all escalators and fees?
- •What warranties cover panels, inverters, and workmanship? Who honors them?
- •Can I see references from 3-5 recent customers in my area?
- •What happens if I sell my home with this agreement?
Are Free Solar Panels a Scam? The Real Answer
Are free solar panels a scam? Not inherently—legitimate $0-down financing exists and helps many homeowners access solar. However, the "free" marketing attracts scammers who exploit consumer confusion. The key: understand that "$0 down" means no upfront payment, not no total cost. Always compare multiple quotes, verify credentials, read contracts carefully, and avoid companies using high-pressure tactics or misleading "government program" claims.
Protect yourself from solar panel scams: Get quotes from at least 3 licensed installers, verify all credentials independently, never sign under pressure, and read every page of your contract before signing. Understand who owns what, who pays what, and what your total long-term costs and savings will be.
Free Solar U.S. advantage: We pre-screen installers for licensing, insurance, customer satisfaction, and transparent pricing. This helps you avoid solar panel companies to avoid and connect with reputable professionals. However, always do your own due diligence and compare multiple quotes.
Understanding the Full Cost of Solar
The cost of solar panels varies based on your system size, location, and financing choice. In 2025, the average residential solar system (6-8 kW) costs $18,000-$28,000 before incentives, or roughly $2.50-$3.50 per watt. Various incentives and financing options can help reduce the net cost.
What You're Paying For
Solar Panels & Equipment
Panels, inverters, mounting hardware, wiring (typically 50-60% of cost)
Installation Labor
Professional installation, electrical work, inspection (15-20%)
Permits & Interconnection
Local permits, utility interconnection fees (5-10%)
Company Overhead & Warranty
Sales, customer service, 25-year warranties, monitoring (15-20%)
Cost Comparison: Ownership Models
Cash Purchase: Lowest lifetime cost. Pay $18,000-$28,000 upfront, own system outright.
Solar Loan: $0 down, finance over 12-25 years. Total financed cost $20,000-$35,000 (including interest). Monthly payments often match your old utility bill.
Lease/PPA: $0 down, pay monthly lease or per-kWh rate for 20-25 years. Total paid over contract: $15,000-$35,000 depending on system size and escalators. No tax credit, lower net savings.
Key takeaway: Always compare solar quotes from multiple installers and ask for 20-year total cost projections for each financing option. The lowest monthly payment isn't always the best deal—focus on total lifetime cost and savings. Use solar financing calculators to understand your true return on investment.
How Incentives Make Solar Ownership Affordable
Solar incentives and solar rebates dramatically reduce the net cost of going solar. Various incentive programs are available at the federal and state level to support solar adoption.
State & Local Solar Incentives
Many states offer additional solar rebates and incentives:
- •Cash rebates (per-watt or flat amount)
- •Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs)
- •Performance-based incentives (PBIs)
- •State tax credits
Tax Exemptions
Many states offer tax exemptions that further improve solar economics:
- •Property tax exemption: Solar adds home value without raising property taxes
- •Sales tax exemption: No sales tax on solar equipment purchase
Important: Incentive availability and amounts vary significantly by location and change over time. When comparing quotes, ensure installers clearly show which incentives you qualify for and whether those savings are already factored into the price. Never rely on projected savings without understanding the underlying incentive assumptions.
Is Solar Worth It?
The answer depends on your location, electricity costs, available incentives, and financing choice. For most U.S. homeowners in states with good sun exposure and moderate-to-high electricity rates, are solar panels worth it? Yes—solar typically provides positive financial returns and significant long-term savings.
Solar Payback Period
The solar payback period is how long it takes for your cumulative energy savings to equal your net system cost (after incentives). In the U.S., typical payback periods range from:
- 6-9 years: Cash purchase or loan with high electricity rates
- 9-12 years: Cash purchase in moderate-cost states
- 12-15+ years: Low electricity rates or minimal incentives
After payback, panels continue generating free electricity for 10-15+ additional years.
Solar Savings
Total solar savings over a system's 25-year warranty period typically range from:
- $20,000-$40,000: Owned systems in average states
- $40,000-$80,000+: High-cost electricity states (CA, HI, MA, NY)
- $10,000-$25,000: Leases/PPAs (lower due to ongoing payments)
Savings increase as utility rates rise over time (historically 2-4% annually).
Solar Home Value Increase
Studies show owned solar systems add approximately 4% to home resale value—about $15,000-$20,000 for a median-priced home. This solar home value increase is immediate and helps offset system cost if you sell before payback. Note: Leased/PPA systems typically don't add value and can complicate sales.
Maintenance & Reliability
Solar panels require minimal maintenance—mostly just occasional cleaning and annual inspections. Modern panels are highly reliable with 25-year performance warranties and 30+ year lifespans. Factor in $100-$300/year for maintenance if you own your system.
Geography Matters
Solar works in all 50 states, but economics vary. Best markets: high electricity costs + good sun (CA, AZ, FL, TX, NY, NJ, MA). Solar can still be worth it in cloudier states (WA, OR) if electricity rates are high enough. Get multiple quotes to see real projected savings for your specific location.
Bottom line: For most homeowners, solar provides strong financial returns, especially with $0-down financing. The key is comparing multiple quotes, understanding your solar payback period, and choosing the financing option that maximizes your solar savings over 20-25 years.
Why Your Choice of Installer is Critical
Your solar installer determines not just installation quality, but long-term system performance, warranty support, and overall experience. Choosing from the best solar companies ensures you get quality equipment, professional installation, and reliable service for 25+ years.
What to Look For
- Licensing & Insurance: Verify contractor license, liability insurance, workers comp
- Experience: Minimum 3-5 years in business, hundreds of installations
- Certifications: NABCEP certification, manufacturer training credentials
- Local Presence: Nearby office for service, familiar with local permits/utilities
Red Flags to Avoid
- ⚠High-pressure sales tactics or "limited time" offers
- ⚠Requesting full payment upfront
- ⚠Vague or unrealistic savings projections
- ⚠Refusal to provide detailed written quotes
- ⚠No verifiable local references or reviews
Solar Warranties
Quality installers offer comprehensive solar warranties:
Panel Performance Warranty: 25 years (typically 85-90% output at year 25)
Inverter Warranty: 10-25 years depending on type
Workmanship Warranty: 5-10 years covering installation labor and roof penetrations
Equipment Warranty: Manufacturer warranties on racking, wiring, etc.
Ask installers to clarify what each warranty covers and who honors it if the company goes out of business.
Monitoring & Support
The best installers provide real-time system monitoring apps and responsive customer service. Check if they offer 24/7 monitoring, proactive outage alerts, and local service technicians for repairs.
Transparent Pricing
Reputable companies provide itemized quotes showing equipment costs, labor, permits, and financing terms. They explain all incentives, realistic production estimates, and payback calculations. Avoid installers who won't share detailed pricing until after a home visit.
Solar Installer Reviews
Always check solar installer reviews on Google, Yelp, BBB, and SolarReviews.com. Look for consistent 4+ star ratings, recent reviews, and how companies respond to complaints. Ask for local customer references you can contact directly.
Free Solar U.S. advantage: We pre-vet installers for licensing, insurance, experience, and customer satisfaction. By comparing multiple quotes from our vetted network, you get competitive pricing, quality assurance, and confidence you're working with reliable professionals. Get started now to compare quotes from the best solar companies in your area.
Find Zero-Down Solar in Your State
Compare free quotes from pre-screened solar installers nationwide. See your state's average electricity rates, available financing options, and local cities we serve.
Alabama
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1672/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Huntsville
- Mobile
- Birmingham
- Montgomery
- Tuscaloosa
- Hoover
- Auburn
- Dothan
- Madison
- Decatur
Alaska
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.2646/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Anchorage
- Fairbanks
- Juneau
- Wasilla
- Sitka
- Ketchikan
- Kenai
- Palmer
- Bethel
- Homer
Arizona
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1442/kWh
Strong Solar Lease & PPA Market
- Phoenix
- Tucson
- Mesa
- Chandler
- Scottsdale
- Glendale
- Gilbert
- Tempe
- Peoria
- Surprise
Arkansas
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1331/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Little Rock
- Fort Smith
- Fayetteville
- Springdale
- Jonesboro
- North Little Rock
- Conway
- Rogers
- Bentonville
- Pine Bluff
California
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.3117/kWh
Low-Income Grants & Programs
- Los Angeles
- San Diego
- San Jose
- San Francisco
- Fresno
- Sacramento
- Long Beach
- Oakland
- Bakersfield
- Anaheim
Colorado
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1486/kWh
Strong Solar Lease & PPA Market
- Denver
- Colorado Springs
- Aurora
- Fort Collins
- Lakewood
- Thornton
- Arvada
- Westminster
- Pueblo
- Centennial
Connecticut
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.2609/kWh
State-Supported "Smart-E" Loans
- Bridgeport
- New Haven
- Stamford
- Hartford
- Waterbury
- Norwalk
- Danbury
- New Britain
- Meriden
- Bristol
Delaware
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1479/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Wilmington
- Dover
- Newark
- Middletown
- Smyrna
- Milford
- Seaford
- Georgetown
- Elsmere
- New Castle
Florida
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1637/kWh
Strong Solar Lease & PPA Market
- Jacksonville
- Miami
- Tampa
- Orlando
- St. Petersburg
- Hialeah
- Tallahassee
- Fort Lauderdale
- Port St. Lucie
- Cape Coral
Georgia
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1536/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Atlanta
- Columbus
- Augusta
- Macon
- Savannah
- Athens
- Sandy Springs
- Roswell
- Johns Creek
- Albany
Hawaii
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.4501/kWh
Strong Solar Lease & PPA Market
- Honolulu
- East Honolulu
- Pearl City
- Hilo
- Kailua
- Waipahu
- Kaneohe
- Kahului
- Ewa Beach
- Mililani Town
Idaho
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1144/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Boise
- Meridian
- Nampa
- Idaho Falls
- Pocatello
- Caldwell
- Coeur d'Alene
- Twin Falls
- Lewiston
- Post Falls
Illinois
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1714/kWh
Low-Income "Solar for All" Program
- Chicago
- Aurora
- Naperville
- Joliet
- Rockford
- Springfield
- Elgin
- Peoria
- Champaign
- Waukegan
Indiana
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1656/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Indianapolis
- Fort Wayne
- Evansville
- South Bend
- Carmel
- Fishers
- Bloomington
- Hammond
- Gary
- Lafayette
Iowa
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1508/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Des Moines
- Cedar Rapids
- Davenport
- Sioux City
- Iowa City
- Waterloo
- Council Bluffs
- Ames
- West Des Moines
- Dubuque
Kansas
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1497/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Wichita
- Overland Park
- Kansas City
- Olathe
- Topeka
- Lawrence
- Shawnee
- Manhattan
- Lenexa
- Salina
Kentucky
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1376/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Louisville
- Lexington
- Bowling Green
- Owensboro
- Covington
- Richmond
- Georgetown
- Florence
- Elizabethtown
- Hopkinsville
Louisiana
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1246/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- New Orleans
- Baton Rouge
- Shreveport
- Lafayette
- Lake Charles
- Kenner
- Bossier City
- Monroe
- Alexandria
- Houma
Maine
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.2155/kWh
State-Supported Loan Programs
- Portland
- Lewiston
- Bangor
- South Portland
- Auburn
- Biddeford
- Sanford
- Saco
- Augusta
- Westbrook
Maryland
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1721/kWh
Strong Solar Lease & PPA Market
- Baltimore
- Frederick
- Rockville
- Gaithersburg
- Bowie
- Hagerstown
- Annapolis
- College Park
- Salisbury
- Laurel
Massachusetts
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.2877/kWh
State-Supported "Mass Solar Loan"
- Boston
- Worcester
- Springfield
- Cambridge
- Lowell
- Brockton
- Quincy
- Lynn
- New Bedford
- Fall River
Michigan
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1945/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Detroit
- Grand Rapids
- Warren
- Sterling Heights
- Ann Arbor
- Lansing
- Flint
- Dearborn
- Livonia
- Clinton Township
Minnesota
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1562/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Minneapolis
- St. Paul
- Rochester
- Duluth
- Bloomington
- Brooklyn Park
- Plymouth
- Woodbury
- Maple Grove
- Blaine
Mississippi
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1344/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Jackson
- Gulfport
- Southaven
- Hattiesburg
- Biloxi
- Meridian
- Tupelo
- Greenville
- Olive Branch
- Horn Lake
Missouri
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1364/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Kansas City
- St. Louis
- Springfield
- Columbia
- Independence
- Lee's Summit
- O'Fallon
- St. Joseph
- St. Charles
- Blue Springs
Montana
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1259/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Billings
- Missoula
- Great Falls
- Bozeman
- Butte
- Helena
- Kalispell
- Havre
- Anaconda
- Miles City
Nebraska
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1204/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Omaha
- Lincoln
- Bellevue
- Grand Island
- Kearney
- Fremont
- Hastings
- North Platte
- Norfolk
- Columbus
Nevada
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1489/kWh
Strong Solar Lease & PPA Market
- Las Vegas
- Henderson
- Reno
- North Las Vegas
- Sparks
- Carson City
- Fernley
- Elko
- Mesquite
- Boulder City
New Hampshire
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.2490/kWh
State-Supported Loan Programs
- Manchester
- Nashua
- Concord
- Derry
- Rochester
- Salem
- Dover
- Merrimack
- Londonderry
- Hudson
New Jersey
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1734/kWh
Strong Solar Lease & PPA Market
- Newark
- Jersey City
- Paterson
- Elizabeth
- Trenton
- Clifton
- Camden
- Passaic
- Union City
- Bayonne
New Mexico
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1516/kWh
Strong Solar Lease & PPA Market
- Albuquerque
- Las Cruces
- Rio Rancho
- Santa Fe
- Roswell
- Farmington
- Clovis
- Hobbs
- Alamogordo
- Carlsbad
New York
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.2246/kWh
State-Supported "NY-Sun" Loans
- New York City
- Buffalo
- Rochester
- Yonkers
- Syracuse
- Albany
- New Rochelle
- Mount Vernon
- Schenectady
- Utica
North Carolina
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1344/kWh
Strong Solar Lease & PPA Market
- Charlotte
- Raleigh
- Greensboro
- Durham
- Winston-Salem
- Fayetteville
- Cary
- Wilmington
- High Point
- Asheville
North Dakota
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1144/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Fargo
- Bismarck
- Grand Forks
- Minot
- West Fargo
- Williston
- Dickinson
- Mandan
- Jamestown
- Wahpeton
Ohio
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1554/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Columbus
- Cleveland
- Cincinnati
- Toledo
- Akron
- Dayton
- Parma
- Canton
- Youngstown
- Lorain
Oklahoma
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1330/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Oklahoma City
- Tulsa
- Norman
- Broken Arrow
- Edmond
- Lawton
- Moore
- Midwest City
- Enid
- Stillwater
Oregon
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1248/kWh
Low-Income Grant Programs
- Portland
- Salem
- Eugene
- Gresham
- Hillsboro
- Beaverton
- Bend
- Medford
- Springfield
- Corvallis
Pennsylvania
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1659/kWh
State-Supported Loan Programs
- Philadelphia
- Pittsburgh
- Allentown
- Erie
- Reading
- Scranton
- Bethlehem
- Lancaster
- Harrisburg
- Altoona
Rhode Island
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.2670/kWh
State-Supported Loan Programs
- Providence
- Warwick
- Cranston
- Pawtucket
- East Providence
- Woonsocket
- Coventry
- Cumberland
- North Providence
- South Kingstown
South Carolina
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1568/kWh
Strong Solar Lease & PPA Market
- Columbia
- Charleston
- North Charleston
- Mount Pleasant
- Rock Hill
- Greenville
- Summerville
- Sumter
- Goose Creek
- Hilton Head Island
South Dakota
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1321/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Sioux Falls
- Rapid City
- Aberdeen
- Brookings
- Watertown
- Mitchell
- Yankton
- Pierre
- Huron
- Spearfish
Tennessee
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1381/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Nashville
- Memphis
- Knoxville
- Chattanooga
- Clarksville
- Murfreesboro
- Franklin
- Jackson
- Johnson City
- Bartlett
Texas
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1429/kWh
Strong Solar Lease & PPA Market
- Houston
- San Antonio
- Dallas
- Austin
- Fort Worth
- El Paso
- Arlington
- Corpus Christi
- Plano
- Laredo
Utah
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1148/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Salt Lake City
- West Valley City
- Provo
- West Jordan
- Orem
- Sandy
- Ogden
- St. George
- Layton
- Taylorsville
Vermont
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.2142/kWh
State-Supported Loan Programs
- Burlington
- South Burlington
- Rutland
- Barre
- Montpelier
- Winooski
- St. Albans
- Newport
- Vergennes
- Brattleboro
Virginia
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1431/kWh
Low-Income Grant Programs
- Virginia Beach
- Norfolk
- Chesapeake
- Richmond
- Newport News
- Alexandria
- Hampton
- Roanoke
- Portsmouth
- Suffolk
Washington
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1125/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Seattle
- Spokane
- Tacoma
- Vancouver
- Bellevue
- Kent
- Everett
- Renton
- Spokane Valley
- Federal Way
West Virginia
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1391/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Charleston
- Huntington
- Morgantown
- Parkersburg
- Wheeling
- Weirton
- Fairmont
- Martinsburg
- Beckley
- Clarksburg
Wisconsin
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1723/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Milwaukee
- Madison
- Green Bay
- Kenosha
- Racine
- Appleton
- Waukesha
- Eau Claire
- Oshkosh
- Janesville
Wyoming
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.1161/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- Cheyenne
- Casper
- Laramie
- Gillette
- Rock Springs
- Sheridan
- Green River
- Evanston
- Riverton
- Jackson
Washington D.C.
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.2392/kWh
Low-Income "Solar for All" Program
- Capitol Hill
- Georgetown
- Dupont Circle
- Adams Morgan
- Columbia Heights
- Shaw
- U Street
- Navy Yard
- Foggy Bottom
- Penn Quarter
Puerto Rico
Avg. Electricity Rate: $0.2250/kWh
$0-Down Solar Loans
- San Juan
- Bayamón
- Carolina
- Ponce
- Caguas
- Guaynabo
- Mayagüez
- Trujillo Alto
- Arecibo
- Fajardo
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Free Solar U.S.?
We make going solar simple, transparent, and affordable.
$0 Down Options
Go solar without any upfront costs using loans, leases, or PPAs.
Vetted Installers
We only partner with licensed, insured, and highly-rated solar companies.
Free Comparison
Get multiple quotes and choose the best deal—no pressure, no obligation.
What Homeowners Say
Join thousands of homeowners who've made the switch to solar.
"Y'all, this was a game changer for us. Got connected with some solid installers and honestly couldn't be happier. Electric bill's way lower now."
Michael R.
Tampa, FL
"Super straightforward. Filled out the form, got a bunch of quotes back pretty quick. Everything went smooth and now we're generating our own power!"
Jennifer L.
San Diego, CA
"Honestly was skeptical at first but glad I gave it a shot. The installers knew their stuff and walked us through everything. Would definitely recommend."
David K.
Phoenix, AZ
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