Financing
Flexible Ways to Pay for Solar
Own your system outright, finance it with a low monthly payment, or explore no-upfront-cost options. We'll compare them side by side.
Why Financing Solar Can Make Sense
With financing, you can start saving from day one — trading a utility bill you don't control for a predictable payment on equipment you own. Illinois Shines incentive value and your utility rebate reduce the amount you need to finance.
- Low or no upfront cost
- Preserve savings for other priorities
- Fixed, predictable payments
- Build equity in your home
Loan vs. Lease: Which Is Better?
Owning (cash or loan) typically produces the greatest long-term savings and lets you benefit directly from incentives and any increase in home value. Leases and PPAs can reduce upfront cost but generally deliver smaller lifetime savings, and the leasing company keeps the incentives.
Financing terms, rates, and approval depend on the lender and your credit. We'll walk you through the options available for your project.
Income-Eligible Households
A state program that brings solar to income-eligible households, non-profits, and public facilities, with no upfront cost to participating households.
- Eligibility is based on household income and location; environmental justice and low-income communities are prioritized.
- Projects are completed through Illinois Solar for All Approved Vendors and their registered subcontractors.
- Ask us to check your eligibility — if Solar for All is a better fit, we'll point you in the right direction.
Cash Purchase
- Largest lifetime savings
- You own the system and receive incentives directly
- No interest or monthly payment
Solar Loan
- $0-down options available to qualified buyers
- You own the system and its incentives
- Monthly payment often comparable to your current bill
Cox Power Plan (PPA)
- You provide the roof — no panel purchase
- You pay for the power the system produces, at the rate in your agreement
- Design, permits, installation, and support handled for you
- Qualifying agreement only; credit and roof approval required
Illinois Solar for All
- For income-eligible households
- No upfront cost to participants
- Designed to deliver bill savings
FAQ
Common Questions
Do I have to buy the panels?
No. With a Cox power plan on a qualifying agreement, you provide the roof and pay for the power the system produces. The rate, term, escalator, and buyout are in the agreement before you sign. Credit and roof approval required. This is not free solar — you still pay for power.
Can I go solar with $0 down?
Many qualified buyers can finance with $0 down. Income-eligible households may qualify for Illinois Solar for All with no upfront cost.
Will financing affect my Illinois Shines incentive?
Owned systems — whether paid in cash or financed with a loan — remain eligible for Illinois Shines and the utility DG rebate.
Free solar quote
Get Your Free Customized Solar Plan
See your system design, Illinois incentives, and estimated savings — no pressure, no obligation.