Solar Financing Options in California
Compare the best ways to finance a solar installation in California. Based on average local electricity costs of 32¢/kWh and a typical monthly bill of $250, here is how each financing option stacks up over 25 years.
System Cost
$13,680
After Credits
$9,576
Federal Credit (30%)
$4,104
State Credit
N/A
Financing Calculator for California
Net after credits: $9,576
| Method | Monthly Cost | Upfront Cost | 25-Year Total | 25-Year Savings | Own System |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Cash PurchaseBest Value | $0/mo | $9,576 | $13,326 | $94,902 | Yes |
Solar Loan | $71/mo | $0 | $17,885 | $86,593 | Yes |
Solar Lease | $200/mo | $0 | $86,362 | $22,162 | No |
Power Purchase Agreement | $88/mo | $0 | $26,479 | $82,045 | No |
Cash Purchase
Best ValueMonthly
$0
Upfront
$9,576
25-Year Total
$13,326
25-Year Savings
$94,902
Solar Loan
Monthly
$71
Upfront
$0
25-Year Total
$17,885
25-Year Savings
$86,593
Solar Lease
Monthly
$200
Upfront
$0
25-Year Total
$86,362
25-Year Savings
$22,162
Power Purchase Agreement
Monthly
$88
Upfront
$0
25-Year Total
$26,479
25-Year Savings
$82,045
Estimates based on average electricity costs in California. Actual savings vary based on system size, energy usage, and local utility rates. Loan calculations assume fixed-rate financing. Consult a solar advisor for a personalized quote.
Understanding Your Financing Options in California
Cash Purchase
Pay upfront after tax credits and own your system outright. This option delivers the highest long-term savings since there are no interest payments. Your net cost in California is $9,576 after all credits.
Solar Loan
Finance your system with $0 down and own it from day one. Monthly loan payments are often lower than your current electricity bill. Typical loan terms in California range from 10 to 25 years.
Solar Lease
Lease a system with no upfront cost and pay a fixed monthly amount that is typically 20% less than your current bill. The installer owns and maintains the system for the 25-year term.
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
Pay only for the energy your panels produce at a rate lower than the utility. No upfront cost and no maintenance responsibilities. A great option if you want guaranteed savings with zero commitment.
Best Value in California: Cash Purchase
Based on average electricity costs, the cash purchase option offers the highest 25-year savings of $94,902 for homeowners in California. Adjust the calculator above to see how different interest rates and loan terms change the comparison.
Related Solar Resources for California
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