Solar Financing Decoded: Leases vs. Loans – What Fresno Homeowners Need to Know
Going solar is one of the smartest decisions a California homeowner can make — but how you pay for that system? That’s where things get tricky.
At Rebel Energy Systems, we don’t just install panels — we empower you with clear, honest guidance. So today, we’re breaking down the two most common solar payment paths: leasing and financing. No fluff. No sales pitch. Just the facts.
A Quick Look Back: Financing Was King
For most of the last decade, solar financing was the clear winner. Homeowners could take advantage of generous tax incentives, boost their home value, and ultimately own their system outright — maximizing long-term savings.
But over the last few years, solar leases have started coming out as the preferred option for lots of homeowners. Why? A few reasons:
Battery warranties under leases are now often 20 years, compared to 10–15 years with financed systems
Maintenance, monitoring, and system support are bundled in
Low upfront costs make leases accessible to more homeowners
For those who aren’t planning to stay in their home long-term, leases can feel more flexible and hassle-free
In short: leases aren’t what they used to be — and that’s both good and worth a closer look.
Leasing: The “Rent-to-Use” Solar Option
With a lease, you don’t own the solar system — the solar company does. You pay a fixed monthly fee to use the energy it produces.
Pros:
Low or no upfront costs
Full system maintenance, monitoring, and repairs included
20-year warranty on panels and battery
Predictable monthly payments
Cons:
You don’t own the system are not eligible for the federal 30% tax credit
Fewer long-term savings
Financing: The “Own Your Power” Approach
Financing means you buy the system — either with a loan or upfront cash. You benefit from ownership, tax credits, and long-term savings, but you also take on responsibility.
Pros:
You own the system
Eligible for federal tax credit and other incentives
Adds value to your home
Maximizes long-term savings
Flexibility to sell, expand, or upgrade the system
Cons:
Higher upfront or monthly loan costs
You’re responsible for maintenance and monitoring
Battery warranties typically last 10–15 years
Requires decent credit
Quick note for Fresno and surrounding area homeowners!
Be cautious of what we call a Frankenlease — financing deals disguised as ownership that actually sell the first several years of your system to an outside investor. You will lose the 30% federal tax credit, and if you try to sell your home before full ownership transfers, it can seriously complicate — or even derail — the sale.
California Spotlight: NEM 3.0 Changed the Game
With the rollout of NEM 3.0, solar energy credits for homeowners have dropped significantly. Translation? You now get paid less for the power your system sends back to the grid.
This makes how you pay for your system more important than ever.
For many homeowners, owning their solar (and battery) offers more control, higher value, and better long-term returns under the new rules. But if your priority is low risk and low hassle, a lease — with the right terms — might be a better fit.
So… What’s Right for You?
There’s no universal answer — and that’s exactly why Rebel Energy takes a personalized approach. We look at:
Your credit score and immediate savings goals
Your long-term home plans
Your roof’s age and condition
Your current and future energy use
What matters most to you: ownership, savings, simplicity, or flexibility
The Rebel Difference
We don’t push leases or loans. We don’t take kickbacks from banks or lease providers. We simply sit down with you, look at your numbers, and map out the smartest solar path for your goals.
Because going solar shouldn’t feel like signing a car lease with hidden fees. It should feel like taking control of your energy — and your future.
Let’s Find the Right Solar Strategy for You
👉 Schedule your free solar consultation
Rebel Energy Systems
Powering Your Future, Honestly.
