What’s the Deal with “Free Solar Panels”? Here’s the Real Story

You’ve probably seen the ads:

“Get free solar through a government program!”

“Zero cost installation, find out if you qualify!”

First things first: There’s no government program giving away free solar panels

The federal government does offer a 30% tax credit for homeowners who purchase and own their solar systems. And in some areas, utility companies might offer local rebates. These incentives can significantly reduce your net cost, but they won’t bring it down to zero.

So what are these “no cost” programs really talking about?

They’re usually referring to leases or PPAs

In a solar lease or power purchase agreement (PPA):

• A third-party company installs solar panels on your home

• That company owns the system, not you

• You pay a monthly fee for the power it generates

It’s like renting your roof to a solar company. You’re not paying for equipment, but you’re still paying for electricity, often with a contract that includes annual rate increases (aka escalators).

What’s the tradeoff?

With a lease or PPA:

• You don’t qualify for the 30% tax credit

• You don’t build equity in the system

• You may face hurdles if you sell your home

• The provider benefits from the system’s long-term value, not you

With ownership, whether you pay upfront or finance:

• You keep the tax credit

• You get the long-term savings

• You increase your property value

• You’re in full control of your energy, not locked into a third-party contract

  
  

So is leasing bad? Not necessarily—but it’s not what we offer

Some companies do offer solar leases or PPAs, and for certain homeowners, that model might feel more approachable upfront. But at OneSun, we focus exclusively on ownership-based solar because we believe that’s where the real long-term value lives: for you, not a third party.

That means:

• You keep the tax credit

• You own your system (and the power it produces)

• You’re not tied to escalating payments or outside contracts

• You get full control over your energy and your return on investment

  
  

We’ve found that homeowners who understand the difference usually prefer the clarity and independence that comes with ownership.

Bottom line: If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is

There’s no free solar program, but there is a smart way to go solar with the right expectations and long-term benefits. Reach out to us to see what that looks like for your home.