Does a solar company offer free solar panels?

When a solar company offers free solar panels or a no-cost solar program, they refer to solar leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs). With solar financing arrangements, a solar company will install a solar system on your roof at no up-front cost. But the truth is that you don’t yet own the solar system.

What is a “no cost solar” agreement?

Under these agreements, the company installs solar panels on your roof or property for no upfront to you; hence, the “free” terminology. You will then be charged for consuming the electricity the panels produce and in some cases also be charged a monthly lease fee. You will not own the solar panels with one of these “no cost solar” agreements.

Are 'free' solar panels a good idea?

Companies often offer “free” solar panels through leases or power purchase agreements (PPAs), where they install and maintain the panels at no upfront cost. “Free” solar panels can result in initial savings on your energy bills, but in the long run, the savings may not be as significant as owning your solar panels outright.

Are free or no-cost solar programs a good idea?

If you’re hearing about “free” or “no-cost solar programs,” you’re likely being fed a cheap sales pitch to tempt you into signing a solar lease, or a power purchase agreement. These solar financing options have some merit, but not when they’re pitched by shady companies as free panel programs.

How much does a solar system cost?

If you just need a few panels for a small do-it-yourself solar project, expect to pay around $200 to $350 per panel (between $0.80 and $1.40 per watt). Note: The table below doesn’t include the cost of a solar storage battery, which can add anywhere from $7,000 to $18,000 to your total solar system costs.

How much does solar power cost in 2025?

Take control of your energy costs with solar power. Solar panels generate “free” electricity, but installing a system still costs money. A typical American household needs a 10-kilowatt (kW) system to adequately power their home, which costs $28,241 in 2025.