: When a squirrel chewed through a wire, the leasing company handled the repair for free, as they owned and maintained the system.
: Their monthly payment started lower than their old utility bill, offering immediate savings. However, their contract included a 3% annual escalator , meaning their payments would rise every year. leasing vs buying solar
This is the story of two neighbors, the Millers and the Garcias, who both decided to "go solar" in early 2026. While their roofs looked identical from the street, the fine print of their contracts told two very different financial stories. The Millers: The Immediate Savers (Leasing) : When a squirrel chewed through a wire,
The Millers didn't want to spend $25,000 to $30,000 upfront. They signed a , a popular choice in 2026 for those prioritizing "capital flexibility" over maximum returns. The Upfront Win : They paid $0 down to get started. This is the story of two neighbors, the
The Garcias viewed solar as a home improvement, similar to a kitchen renovation. They purchased their system outright using a mix of savings and a . Leasing vs. Buying Solar Panels: Which is Best? | ENACT
: Because they didn't own the panels, the Millers were ineligible for the federal tax credit and other local incentives; those benefits went straight to the leasing company. The Garcias: The Long-Term Investors (Buying)