Going solar is one of the best investments any homeowner can make — if your credit score isn’t in the perfect range, what are your options? About 15.5% of Americans have a credit score below 600 (Experian) — a point at which traditional solar financing becomes hard. Most people think they’re condemned to perpetually high electricity bills without credit. That’s not true.

At Advisor Solar, we believe clean energy is a right, and everyone must benefit from it — even if your credit history isn’t perfect. We have been delivering top-notch solar installations and services for 10+ years, with over 2000 successful installations, and we understand how to provide all credit-type solar financing options, including no-credit-check possibilities, to assist homeowners in transitioning to solar.

Whether you want to save on energy, be energy-independent, or reduce your carbon footprint, this guide will explain how to buy solar panels without a credit check — and why it may be easier than you think.

Why Do Some Solar Companies Require a Credit Check?

Many traditional solar financing options, including solar loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), come with a credit check. Lenders and solar companies rely on credit scores to evaluate the likelihood that a homeowner will pay monthly bills. This can, unfortunately, be a hurdle for many who wish to go solar.

Reasons Why Some People May Not Qualify for Traditional Solar Financing:

• Low credit score: Most lenders will only work with a person who has a credit score of 650 or higher.
• Lack of credit history: If you do not have a credit profile, your lenders might deem you high risk.
• High debt-to-income (DTI) ratio: Too much debt compared to your income makes qualifying tough.
• Past financial issues: Bankruptcies, late payments, or loan defaults can impact eligibility.
• Limited employment history: Some lenders factor in job stability when approving financing.

If any of those factors apply to you, don’t panic: There are still options for going solar that don’t require a credit check.

Looking to make the best solar choice for your home? Check out our guide, “Top 5 Questions to Ask During Your Solar Consultation,” to make sure you’re asking the right questions about going solar. Get Access to Key Insights That Can Save You Time and Money!

Can You Really Get Solar Panels with No Credit Check?

Yes! Certain financing options have no credit check requirements. Many worry that no-credit-check solar plans might be scams or have hidden costs. However, companies with a stellar reputation, such as Advisor Solar, provide transparent financing options to put solar energy within reach for more homeowners.

Common Misconceptions About No-Credit-Check Solar:

• “Is it a scam?” – No, there are numerous legitimate solar programs that do not require homeowners to get a credit check to go solar.
• “Will there be a higher long-term cost?” Options such as solar leases or PPAs may not provide ownership perks, but they still provide long-term energy cost savings, so there are options for everyone to consider.
• “Are the terms unfair?” – Reputable solar companies have fair terms and upfront pricing, so you don’t have to worry about getting a bad deal.

Now that you know it’s possible, let’s  look at the best methods to purchase solar panels without a credit check.

5 Best Ways to Buy Solar Panels with No Credit Check

It’s easier to go solar without a credit check than you may think due to several financing options that accommodate various budgets and goals. From leasing options and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) to government incentives and flexible payment plans, the realities of solar energy can be tailored to enable you to benefit from this green source free of upfront costs and financial turbulence.

Over half of U.S. homeowners who go solar choose low (or even no) money down payment options (CFPB). So, is it better to immediately save your energy and budget with a PPA or invest in long-term solar system ownership?

1. Solar PPA (Power Purchase Agreement)
2. Solar Lease
3. Government and Utility Incentives
4. No-Credit-Check Solar Loans
5. Buy Now, Pay Later Solar Plans

1. Solar PPA (Power Purchase Agreement)

With a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), homeowners can go solar with no upfront cost and no credit check. Instead of purchasing the solar system, you pay only for the electricity it produces at a fixed rate that is often lower than that of your utility company.

• No credit check is necessary. All approvals depend on home ownership and location, not credit history.
• Low or no upfront costs – No down payment is needed, making solar more accessible.
• Predictable electricity rates – Lock in fixed energy costs, avoiding utility rate hikes.
• No responsibility for system maintenance – The provider owns, monitors, and repairs the system at no extra charge.

2. Solar Lease

A solar lease functions like a PPA with one key difference — instead of paying for the energy produced by the solar panels, you pay a set monthly rate to “rent” them.

• No big upfront cost – You can start saving without a large upfront payment.
• No credit score requirement – Approval is usually based on homeownership.
• Fixed monthly payments – Enjoy consistent costs with no surprise rate increases.
• Maintenance and repairs included – The leasing company handles all upkeep, so you don’t have to.

3. Government and Utility Incentives

Many state and federal programs assist low-income homeowners in installing solar panels without a credit check. These programs help reduce costs through grants, rebates, and tax credits.

• Grants and subsidies – Some government programs cover part or all of the installation costs.
• State solar incentives – Certain states offer special solar financing programs for low-income families.
• Federal tax credits – Homeowners can claim a 30% federal tax credit on solar installation costs.
• Programs like “Energy for All” – Non-profits like GRID Alternatives provide free or low-cost solar to eligible households.

4. No-Credit-Check Solar Loans

Certain financial institutions and green banks offer solar loans that don’t require a credit check. These loans allow you to own your solar system outright, meaning you can qualify for additional savings through tax incentives.

• Specialized solar lenders – Some lenders focus on solar financing without requiring a high credit score.
• Income-driven repayment plans — Some loans give you flexible repayment terms if you can prove your financial status.
• Alternative funding with home equity loans – If you have equity in your home, you can tap it to fund your solar installation.
• Ownership benefits – You own the system, so you get solar tax credits and savings based on the energy it generates.

5. Buy Now, Pay Later Solar Plans

Some solar companies provide financing with “buy now, pay later,” allowing homeowners to put solar panels on their roofs without paying upfront. These plans allow you to set strict payment schedules and sometimes even interest-free periods.

• Deferred payments – Homeowners can start using solar energy and pay later when comfortable.
• Zero upfront cost – Install solar panels with no money down.
• Flexible payment schedules – Pick a payment plan that suits your budget.
• Low-interest or interest-free periods — Some all-inclusive programs offer an initial 0% interest financing period. (Source: Gov Relations)

With no-credit-check solar financing like the options above, you get to start saving on your monthly energy bills and working towards your energy independence today—all without the hassle of waiting for credit approval!

Key Considerations When Choosing No Credit Check Solar Financing

While selecting the best no-credit-check solar financing option, an evaluation of costs, ownership benefits, and long-term savings is required. While credit-free solar has made this energy option more available, measuring the trade-offs between leasing, PPAs, and ownership is important.

Did you know that homeowners who are going solar can save an average of $1,500 a year on their electricity bills? So before you decide, ask yourself: Do you want to just save on energy costs, or do you want to build long-term equity in your home with solar ownership? (Source: Homeowners)

Monthly Costs vs. Long-Term Savings

No-credit-check solar financing options may offer lower monthly payments, but you must be strategic to ensure you get the most savings over time.

• PPAs and leases provide immediate savings – With no upfront costs, you’re saving on electricity immediately, but your long-term financial benefits may not be worth it.
• Purchasing solar panels offers the best long-term return – While the upfront cost is higher, owning your system means bigger lifetime savings and access to tax credits and incentives.
• Some financing plans have higher monthly costs but lower lifetime expenses – Be sure to calculate total costs over 20+ years to see which option makes the most financial sense.

Ownership vs. Leasing

Whether you own or lease your solar panels can affect your savings, access to incentives, and home value.

• You don’t own the system with a lease or PPAs. This relieves you of the maintenance responsibility, but you will not get tax credits or gain equity in your solar investment.
• When you own your solar panels, you can make savings – Federal and state tax incentives, rebates, and a premium on the resale value of your home all apply when you choose to own your solar panels.
• Selling a home with leased solar panels can be complicated — Some buyers may be wary of taking over a lease, so check how easily your contract can be transferred.

Maintenance & Warranty

The reliability of a solar system is closely associated with maintenance and warranty coverage, which differ based on the financing option chosen.

• Leased systems typically include maintenance and repairs – The solar provider is responsible for monitoring, repairs, and part replacements.
• Purchased solar panels come with manufacturer warranties – Most panels include a 25-year performance warranty, but maintenance costs may be your responsibility.
• Understanding warranty coverage ensures long-term reliability – Always check if warranties cover inverters, labor, and potential performance issues.

Hidden Fees & Fine Print

Some no-credit-check solar financing options may include hidden costs, so it’s essential to read the terms carefully.

• Some options include higher fees or escalator clauses, which increase your monthly payments over time, potentially reducing long-term savings.
• Read contract terms carefully – Know how rate changes, payment cycles, and service fees affect the contract you sign.
• Inquire about early termination fees – If you are going to sell your home, find out if your financing contract includes penalties for canceling or transferring the contract.

Considering battery storage with your solar system? Here’s how they keep your home powered during outages and maximize your energy savings: If you’re interested, read our article, “Why Backup Batteries are Essential for Your Solar Energy System,” Be prepared — don’t wait until the next blackout!

Reach Out to Advisor Solar for More Information on No Credit Check Solar Panels

Access to solar should be available to everyone, regardless of credit background. With no credit check needed, Advisor Solar can help homeowners find the best solar solutions.

Whether you’d like a PPA, lease, or alternative no-credit financing option, we will help you through the process. Get in touch now for a free consultation and take charge of your energy!

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