Financing

$0 Down. Your System.
Your Savings.

SPM structures financing so your monthly loan payment is lower than your current energy bill, meaning you start saving from month one, with nothing out of pocket.

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Your Options

Four Ways to Finance Your Energy Plan

$0 Down Solar Loan

C-PACE Financing

Commercial & Agricultural

Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy financing lets businesses and farms fund energy upgrades through a property assessment, often with no upfront cost and repayment spread over 10 to 25 years.

No upfront capital required
Repaid through property tax assessment
Longer terms than traditional loans (up to 25 years)
Transfers with the property if you sell
Available for solar, battery, HVAC, and envelope upgrades
Does not affect your business credit line

Best for: Commercial property owners who want to preserve working capital and avoid traditional debt.

Cash Purchase

Highest ROI

Pay for your system upfront and capture the maximum return. No interest, full SREC income, and every incentive you qualify for, with no loan offset.

Highest long-term return on investment
No interest charges
Commercial and farm buyers cut net cost with the 30% federal ITC
Full SREC income over 15 years
Typically 8 to 12 year payback with solar
100% bonus depreciation for commercial buyers

Best for: Homeowners and businesses who have capital available and want to optimize total savings.

Home Equity / HELOC

Low Rate Option

Use your home's equity to fund energy upgrades at a lower interest rate than a standard solar loan. Interest may be tax-deductible. Confirm with your CPA.

Often the lowest available interest rate
Interest may be tax-deductible
Flexible draw schedule on HELOCs
Can cover multiple projects in one line
Works well when bundling solar + heat pump + windows

Best for: Homeowners with significant equity who want the lowest possible rate and are already working with their bank.

FAQ

Financing Questions

Does SPM offer financing directly, or do I use my own lender?

SPM works with preferred lending partners who specialize in energy and remodeling financing. We can introduce you to them, or we can work with your own bank or credit union, whichever gets you the best rate.

What credit score do I need for a $0 down solar loan?

Most solar lenders require a credit score of 650 or above. Better scores unlock lower rates. SPM works with multiple lenders so we can usually find an option that fits your situation.

If I finance, do I still get a federal tax credit?

It depends on who owns the system and whether it is residential or commercial. The 30% federal residential credit (Section 25D) expired December 31, 2025, so Illinois homeowners no longer claim it. Commercial and farm owners who own their system can still claim the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, plus bonus depreciation. Homeowners still benefit from Illinois Shines SREC income, the Illinois property-tax exemption, and ComEd rebates. Confirm your specifics with your tax advisor.

Can I bundle multiple upgrades (solar + heat pump + windows) into one loan?

Yes. SPM can bundle all of your upgrades into a single financing package, which simplifies paperwork and often gets you a better blended rate than separate loans. Bundling is also how we think about your home. We are not just a solar company. Over 25 years and thousands of customers, we have grown into whole-home energy independence and remodeling, because the goal is not one product, it is a home you love living in. Many homeowners start with one upgrade now and add more over the years, and we are here for all of it.

What is the difference between a solar loan and a solar lease?

With a loan, you own the system, keep the SREC income, and claim any tax credits you qualify for (the 30% federal credit now applies to commercial and farm owners, not residential). With a lease, the financing company owns the system and keeps the incentives. SPM does not offer leases; we only structure owned systems.

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See What Your Financing Looks Like

Our free estimate includes a financing breakdown: monthly payment, total interest, and how it compares to your current energy bill. No commitment required.