PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Under a new program, Oregon homeowners can choose to lease solar panel systems instead of buying, avoiding upfront costs while reducing electricity bills and carbon footprints.
The Oregonian reports that contractors in a handful of states are starting to offer solar panel leases, and Oregon is joining the trend, thanks to regulations that took effect Jan. 1.
Managers of SolarCity, a California-based company, say Oregon homeowners can go solar for as little as $20 a month with no upfront costs.
The new financing option, which incorporates state and federal tax credits, results from an Oregon Energy Department rule change.
