Solar Financing in Minnesota: Cash, Loans and Prepaid Leases
There are good ways to pay for solar and there are leases worth a hard look. Here’s how we think about it — ownership first.
How you pay shapes what you keep. The core split: do you own the system or does someone else?
Cash
The simplest path and the lowest lifetime cost — no interest, no fees. You own everything and keep all the savings, the net-metering value, and the home-value lift.
Solar loan
A loan lets you own the system with little or nothing down, often at a monthly payment near your old utility bill — so you’re buying an asset instead of renting power. The one thing to watch: a very low advertised APR often hides a big dealer fee in the system price. Always compare the cash price to the financed price. We work with straightforward lenders and show you both.
Traditional leases and PPAs vs. a prepaid lease
A lease or power-purchase agreement means a third party owns the panels on your roof for 20-25 years. We don’t sell traditional leases or PPAs with escalating payments. See how solar leases work in Minnesota. You get a smaller discount, complicated home sales, and none of the asset value. In Minnesota, iSolar is ownership-only for homeowners — we want the value on your balance sheet, not a leasing company’s.
Businesses and farms have more tools
Commercial and agricultural customers can use PACE financing and PPAs, and stack the 30% ITC plus depreciation. Different rules, different math — see financing.
Frequently asked.
Is a solar loan a good idea?
It can be, if the cash price and financed price are close. A huge gap means you’re paying a hidden dealer fee for the low APR.
Should I avoid a residential lease?
You don’t own the asset, the savings are smaller, and it can complicate selling your home. Ownership keeps the value yours.
Have a question we haven't covered?
Talk to a local iSolar expert — free, no pressure. Call (651) 565-1140.