How $0-Down Solar Actually Works (And What

Why Your Electric Bill Keeps Rising

Updated June 2026 · 8 min read · By EnergyPros

If it feels like your power bill climbs every year, that's because it usually does. Utility rates rise to cover aging grid infrastructure, fuel-cost swings, storm hardening, and surging electricity demand — and once a rate increase is approved, you can't opt out. You simply pay more for the same power.

For homeowners served by utilities like PECO, PPL, and Duquesne Light in Pennsylvania; Eversource and National Grid across Massachusetts and Rhode Island; PSE&G in New Jersey; Con Edison in New York; and the major utilities across Michigan, Ohio, and Maryland, those increases stack up year after year, with no ceiling.

The Northeast pays the most

Residential electricity in the Northeast — Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania — is among the most expensive in the country. Higher starting rates mean every increase costs you more, which is why solar tends to "pencil out" faster in these states than almost anywhere else.

How $0-down solar locks in lower power

Every kilowatt-hour your roof produces is one you no longer buy from the utility at its rising rate. With a $0-down lease or PPA, you pay a per-kWh rate for your solar power that's often lower than your utility's — and far more predictable. No purchase. No loan. No large upfront cost. Pair it with battery storage and you also keep the lights on during outages. The federal residential solar tax credit ended for systems purchased after December 31, 2025; incentive availability depends on ownership structure, state programs, and current law. EnergyPros does not provide tax advice.

What you can do about it

EnergyPros runs a free, 2-minute eligibility check and matches you with vetted, A-rated, licensed local installers for solar (with battery backup) — we do the work of finding the right team so you don't have to. Check your eligibility →

Frequently asked questions

Is $0-down solar really free?

No. $0-down means no upfront cost — you pay nothing to install the panels. But you pay for the electricity (in a PPA), a monthly lease payment (in a lease), or loan installments (in a solar loan). The total cost over 20-25 years can range from "less than your current utility bills" (best case) to "about the same as your current bills" (worst case). $0-down solar is real and works, but it is not free.

Who owns the panels in a $0-down deal?

It depends on the structure. PPAs and leases — the solar company owns the panels and any available tax incentives go to them (and are already factored into your lower rate). Solar loans — you own the panels and may be eligible for available tax incentives (consult a tax professional; rules change over time). After loan payoff, you own the system outright. After a PPA or lease ends (year 20-25), you can typically buy out the panels for a small amount, extend the contract, or have them removed.

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

PPAs typically require 600+ credit scores; some accept 580+. Solar loans typically require 650+, with the best rates at 720+. If your credit is below 600, ask about PPAs specifically — the underwriting is more focused on homeownership and bill history than on credit score alone.

Can I get out of a $0-down solar contract early?

Yes, but how easily depends on the contract. Most PPAs allow buyout starting year 5 or 7 at a pre-calculated price. Some allow transfer to a new owner if you sell. Solar loans can be paid off at any time without prepayment penalty (verify in your loan terms). Read the early-termination clause before you sign.

Does $0-down solar affect my home value?

Owned solar systems (paid in cash or through a loan) generally add value — studies show roughly 4% home value increase. PPAs and leases are more complicated — they transfer with the home but some buyers prefer not to assume them. If you plan to sell within 5 years, ownership tends to be more valuable than $0-down financing.

See if your home qualifies

Free, no obligation. About 2 minutes to see if you qualify for $0-down solar or roofing through our vetted installer network.

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Rising energy costs — FAQ

Why does my electric bill keep going up?

Utilities raise rates to cover grid upgrades, fuel costs, storm hardening, and rising demand. Once a hike is approved you can't opt out. Generating your own solar power is one of the few ways to reduce your exposure to those increases.

Can solar really cost less than my utility?

Often, yes. With a $0-down lease or PPA, many homeowners pay a lower, more predictable per-kWh rate for their solar power than their utility charges. Savings vary by home, usage, and utility; EnergyPros matches you with installers who build a custom estimate.

Is $0-down solar real?

Yes. $0-down solar lease and PPA options let qualified homeowners go solar with no purchase and no loan — no large upfront cost.

Which states have the highest electric rates?

The Northeast — Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania — consistently has some of the highest residential electricity rates in the continental U.S., which is why solar value is especially strong there.