Solar Lease vs Buy Calculator
Compare the long-term financial impact of buying solar with cash, financing with a loan, or signing a solar lease / Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
DISCLAIMER: All estimates are approximations based on regional averages. Actual savings vary by location, roof orientation, utility provider, and installer. This calculator does not guarantee specific savings.
Electricity rates last updated: August 2026 (source: EIA)
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20-Year Cost Comparison
Federal Residential Solar Tax Credit (Section 25D)
This credit expired December 31, 2025 and is not available for systems installed in 2026 or later.
The 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) applied to solar and battery storage systems placed in service through December 31, 2025. Systems installed in 2026 or later do not qualify. Many online calculators and contractor quotes still include this credit — be sure any estimate you receive reflects current law. The commercial Investment Tax Credit (ITC, Section 48) has different rules and may still apply to certain business or commercial installations.
Lease / PPA Note: Leasing does not qualify for the federal tax credit. Only purchase and financing options are eligible for these incentives.
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