For those interested in solar power for their homes, the math may be changing on which model to choose. In a Washington Post column, Michael J. Coren explains that buying the panels outright is now an even pricier proposition given the loss of solar tax credits—it would likely take a decade to make the money back in savings. Other traditional avenues—25-year leases or "power purchase agreements" often carry penalties for cancellation. What has Coren intrigued is a new type of payment model, more like Netflix than a long-term commitment: a three-year subscription, after which the panels can be removed at no cost if the owner wishes. If the panels stay, people "lock in a low, predictable electricity rate relative to their local utility, like any other leasing model."
The shift is being driven by companies like Terra Energy, which is making inroads in states including Florida and Texas. Coren writes that he was "dubious," but "when I called industry analysts and some of Terra Energy's customers, they told me this subscription model might just be the future." Residential solar remains very much in flux, Coren notes. "After a wild-west period, the solar industry will keep consolidating into something more professional and profitable, even after the remaining tax credits expire." Coren digs into how the contracts work, and points to the sites Energy Sage and Solar United Neighbors as places for those interested to get info. Read the full column.
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