If you're tired of paying for solar panels, there are plenty of free options available. Sunrun, for example, offers free solar panels as part of their free solar program. However, this program comes with many disadvantages and you should be cautious about them. You don't have the system and it can't be added to your home's value.
Sunrun offers free solar panels
Sunrun solar panels are free and come with many perks, unlike other solar leasing companies that charge a low monthly fee. This service includes a 10-year free replacement and active monitoring. You will also receive a comprehensive insurance policy for your solar panels.
The company provides solar panels for free and also offers customizable solar energy solutions. They can install and maintain your solar system for you. Sunrun also offers ownership of their solar panels in some states. These services include leases, purchase options, as well as Power Purchase Agreements.
There is no free program.
Online advertisements for "free" solar panels are not genuine government programs. Instead, they are deceptive sales pitches, designed to collect your contact information and distribute it to as many companies as possible. The free solar panels you get are not really yours; instead, you will receive a power purchase or lease.
No cost solar programs are often promoted by the government as incentives to pay for the solar panels. Many "free solar" deals are actually soar leases, or power purchase agreements. In these agreements, the solar company places solar panels on your rooftop and buys power for 20 years. In fact, Tesla/SolarCity CEO was attempting to portray their product as "no-cost" in a Fox interview.
You don’t own the system
Leased solar panels are not yours. You can transfer your lease if you ever decide to sell your home. However, buying out the lease may be expensive, and it could erode your energy savings. A solar lease cannot be eligible for the federal capital credit, also known by the Solar Tax Credit.
Some solar lease companies offer $0 financing options. These programs can be very beneficial, as they give you the opportunity to own your system. SunPower, Freedom Forever and Trinity Solar offer solar leasing. It is best to speak with a solar professional before you sign a lease. EcoWatch makes it easy to find an installer online.
It doesn't add value to your home
A solar panel can be a great way to increase your savings. Solar panels provide free energy for appliances during the daylight. The surplus can be used for power at night, or to store energy for use on overcast days. Solar panels with batteries can even help you earn money from your utility provider. There are programs such as net metering and SRECs that reward you for using these renewable energy sources.
One 2015 study revealed that most homes with solar panel systems in the U.S. did not appreciate in value over the past few years. This is because the study did no use data from home sales to determine value. The study also looked at only six states, including California, Oregon, Maryland, and Florida. The findings were jointly analyzed by seven appraisers as well as researchers from Berkeley Lab.
It's a scam
There are many solar scams that claim to provide free solar panels for homes. However, it is important to avoid these scams. While there are legitimate companies, many solar scams will provide substandard products at no cost. You can avoid scams by doing your research online. Companies that contact you unannounced should be avoided.
Avoid signing up for companies that demand money immediately. You can verify the legitimacy of a company by asking for their contact details. If the company is too eager to sign you up, it is probably a scam.