How to Lease Solar Energy Equipment
Purchasing a system to create renewable energy is too expensive for many homeowners. Leasing solar energy equipment is a good alternative. In some cases, the cost of a lease is less than normal electric bills. For many homeowners, the ecological benefits of leasing solar energy are worth it even if the cost equals what they are currently paying. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Check that your home is in an area where solar equipment leasing is available. Links for two companies are provided below (Solar City and Solargies). Even if service is not yet offered in your area, these companies may allow you to sign up for a waiting list.
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Make sure you have enough roof and sun access to use a solar energy system. Solar panels will need to be installed on your roof or an adjacent building. The leasing company will ask how much roof shading and roof pitch your house has and what direction your house faces.
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Read the terms and conditions of the service provider. Before you invest any more time, make sure that you agree to the legal terms the company requires.
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Calculate your savings or costs based on the service agreement. Make sure the system is financially viable or that the environmental savings outweighs the costs and trouble you will incur.
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Request a consultation. A salesperson will visit your home to present all the details. They may sketch a system right then or make an appointment for an engineer to come design your system. The company should facilitate the design and make sure all required permits are obtained.
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Tips & Warnings
Some companies require you to use NetMeeting to monitor the progress of the equipment.
Plan for the end of your lease. You will probably be given a choice of buying the equipment or upgrading.
Keep your old electrical system in tact even after solar equipment is installed.
