Connecticut homeowners can go solar with $0 down through several routes. The right choice depends on your tax situation, credit profile, and long-term goals.
CT solar financing options:
- Solar loan ($0 down — recommended for most CT homeowners): You own the system, keep the full 30% federal ITC, and benefit from the CT RSIP incentive. Monthly payments are often offset by electric bill savings. CT Green Bank Smart-E Loans offer below-market rates.
- CT Green Bank Smart-E Loan: $0 down, fixed low rate, accessible credit requirements, you own the system and keep all tax credits. Best option for many CT homeowners who want ownership economics.
- Solar lease: $0 down, installer owns the system — you pay a fixed monthly lease. You do NOT receive the federal ITC or CT RSIP incentive. Savings are real but smaller than ownership. Encumbers property title.
- PPA (Power Purchase Agreement): $0 down, you pay per kWh produced at a rate below your utility rate. Installer owns system; you don't receive tax credits. Rate typically escalates annually.
For most CT homeowners with meaningful federal tax liability, a solar loan or Smart-E Loan that preserves system ownership and tax credit access produces far better 25-year outcomes than a lease or PPA.