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Get Your Solar Thanks to Leasing!

Updated: 8 hours ago

Making the Switch to Clean Energy: Solar Leasing in Illinois

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Making the switch to clean energy has never been easier or more affordable, especially for homeowners in Illinois. If you've considered getting solar panels but hesitated because of the high upfront investment, solar leasing offers a smart alternative. With no upfront cost and monthly payments , leasing allows you to enjoy the benefits of solar energy without breaking the bank.


What Is Solar Leasing?

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Solar leasing is a financing arrangement where you don't buy the solar panels; instead, you rent them from a solar provider. The company installs the system on your home and maintains ownership, while you get to use the electricity it generates. In exchange, you pay a fixed monthly lease fee for 15 to 25 years.


This model is especially attractive for families who want a no upfront cost option. The leasing company manages the design, permitting, installation, and even long-term maintenance. You just pay your lease and enjoy lower electric bills and cleaner energy without worrying about system repairs or performance.


Solar leasing no upfront cost

What Does It Cost?

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When you choose solar leasing, your monthly payments typically range from $99 to $150, depending on your energy usage, home size, credit score, and system size. One of the biggest perks is that you pay $0 upfront. That’s right! You can go solar without putting any money down.


Most leasing contracts last 20 to 25 years, with options to renew, transfer, or buy out the system. Since the lease cost stays fixed, you get predictable energy expenses and protection from rising electricity rates.


✅ Pros of Solar Leasing

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  • No upfront cost: You can go solar without a large financial commitment.

  • Immediate savings: Monthly lease payments are often lower than your current electric bill.

  • Maintenance included: The provider takes care of repairs, monitoring, and panel performance.

  • Simple process: Fast installation and easy approval based on your credit.

  • Predictable payments: A fixed lease rate protects you from utility price hikes.


⚠️ Cons to Consider

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  • You don’t own the system: This means you don’t build equity in the solar panels or benefit from the system's resale value.

  • No federal tax credit: The 30% solar investment tax credit (ITC) goes to the leasing company, not to you.

  • Limited long-term savings: While you’ll still save, the lifetime savings may be smaller compared to owning.

  • Contractual commitment: Leases are long-term contracts and may have cancellation fees or transfer conditions.


How Much Can You Save?

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While solar leasing doesn’t always offer the same long-term return as owning, most Illinois homeowners still see 10% to 30% savings on their electric bills. Over the life of the lease, that can add up to $6,000 to $15,000 in reduced utility costs. Plus, you're using clean, renewable energy, which benefits the planet.


Illinois also has solar incentives that help leasing companies offer affordable rates. Programs like Illinois Shines provide Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs), which can lower your monthly lease price even further.


Lease vs. Other Solar Financing Options

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Financing Option

Upfront Cost

Monthly Payments

Ownership

Tax Credits

Maintenance

Lease

$0

$99–$150

No

No

Included

Loan

$0–$5,000+

$100–$250

Yes

Yes

Sometimes Included

Cash Purchase

High

None

Yes

Yes

You


Looking for $99/Month Solar Options?

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At Sige Solar, we specialize in helping Illinois homeowners go solar with flexible financing — including solar leasing options starting at just $99/month. We’ll guide you through the entire process, from checking your eligibility to installation and support. With no upfront cost, no hidden fees, and expert guidance, we make solar simple and affordable.


Ready to see if solar leasing is right for your home? Contact Sige Solar today and take your first step toward clean, reliable energy!



Written by Elizabeth Martinez

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Marketing Coordinator, Sige Solar


May 12, 2025

 
 
 

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