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

Most Popular

Own your system from day one with no money down. Monthly loan payments are typically lower than your current electric bill — so you start saving immediately.

  • No upfront cost
  • Fixed monthly payments — no surprises
  • You own the system (not a lease)
  • Full 30% federal tax credit goes to you
  • Illinois Shines SREC income goes to you
  • Loan terms from 5–25 years

Best for: Homeowners and businesses who want to own their system and maximize long-term savings.

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 10–25 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 tax credit, and SREC income with no loan offset.

  • Highest long-term return on investment
  • No interest charges
  • 30% federal tax credit reduces net cost immediately
  • Full SREC income over 15 years
  • Typically 8–12 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 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 the federal tax credit?

Yes — if you own the system (loan, not lease), you keep the full 30% federal Investment Tax Credit. Many customers use that credit to pay down their loan balance in year one.

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

Yes. SPM can bundle all energy upgrades into a single financing package, which simplifies paperwork and often gets you a better blended rate than separate loans.

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

With a loan, you own the system, receive all tax credits, and earn SREC income. With a lease, the financing company owns the system and keeps the credits. 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.

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