RevoluSun Blog
Solar Leasing 101: What Is a Solar Lease?
Kelley Burke
1 August 2025
The Game Has Changed
The solar industry just experienced its biggest shift in over a decade. With the federal tax credit for homeowners ending December 31, 2025, the way Hawaii families go solar is fundamentally changing. But here’s the good news: solar leasing is about to make solar more accessible than ever before.
What Is a Solar Lease?
A solar company installs panels on your roof at no upfront cost, and you pay a lower rate for the solar power those panels generate.
Here’s how it works:
- A solar company installs and maintains the system
- You pay a monthly rate for the electricity produced
- Your electric bill drops dramatically or disappears entirely
- The solar company handles all maintenance and repairs
- You enjoy clean energy without the large upfront investment
Why Would You Lease Instead of Buy?
With the federal tax credit ending for homeowners, purchasing solar extends the return on investment. But leasing companies can still claim those tax credits, allowing them to offer you solar electricity at rates far below what Hawaiian Electric charges.
Benefits of leasing:
- $0 down payment
- Battery Storage
- Immediate savings on your electric bill
- No maintenance worries
- Professional monitoring and support
- Predictable energy costs
The New Reality in Hawaii
Hawaiian Electric rates continue climbing, but with a solar lease, you can lock in lower electricity rates and protect yourself from future utility increases. It’s like having your own personal power plant – without the hassle of owning one. Imagine having a fixed electricity rate for 20 or 25 years, knowing exactly how much you’ll pay every month.
