What’s the first thing you think when you hear the words ‘free solar’? Like many people we talk to, your first thought may be, “That’s too good to be true.” In many cases, free solar is too good to be true. Spoiler alert: someone does pay, but at Uprise, that someone is us. Here are the nuts and bolts of how we can offer our no-cost solar program.
First: What Is Uprise’s No-Cost Solar Program?
At Uprise, we’re able to provide no-cost solar to communities across Washington, DC and the Beltway because we serve as the system owner. That means we receive the available incentives such as the federal solar tax credit and Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs), so you don’t have to worry about them. Our program is structured as a $0.00 Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), allowing you to benefit from solar without any upfront costs. Most homeowners see savings of 50% to 90% on their power bills. In many cases, the only charge left from your utility is a small meter connection fee, typically around $20 a month, which is already part of your current bill.
Another way to think of our no-cost solar program is like a trade. We’re using the room on your roof to install solar panels, which earn us money, and in return you get cheaper, cleaner electricity.
There are no moving parts, so regular solar maintenance is extremely rare. However if needed it is on us with the PPA for the first 20 years. After 20 years, you count as the system owner. But if something breaks during those first 20 years, we’ll cover the cost.
If you’d rather skip the hassle of buying a system but still want the savings and benefits of solar, Uprise’s no-cost solar program is a perfect fit. Read through our blog post on the program to find answers to common questions, and as always, you are welcome to call or email us to talk more!
Who pays for free solar?
Our no-cost solar program wouldn’t work as well in all areas of the country. But in the DC area, it makes financial sense for us. The District government has set ambitious climate targets, so it’s in their interest to make solar attractive. They’ve pursued multiple options to do so, but the key one here is SRECs.
Utility companies like Pepco buy SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Credits) to meet the District’s clean energy goals, known as renewable portfolio standards. Every time your solar panels produce one megawatt-hour of electricity, you earn one SREC. In Washington DC, SRECs are especially valuable, often selling for around $400 each. Since a typical residential system generates about 10 SRECs per year, the value adds up quickly. Combined with the 30% federal solar tax credit, most systems in DC pay for themselves in about three to five years.
Another way to think of SRECs is like a carbon tax, or the price put on carbon emissions created by people or businesses.
SREC prices aren’t as high in other places of the country — and many states don’t even have a SREC market at all. Not only does DC have a thriving SREC market, but ours is the best in the country, largely due to progressive climate policies put in place by the DC government.
So the short answer is: the DC government, utility companies, and companies offering a PPA like Uprise pay for free solar.
Why would DC incentivize free solar?
Two words: climate change. Here’s the longer version: If we want to build a sustainable future for the generations that follow us, renewable energy must be part of the solution. Solar power allows us to generate electricity without the carbon emissions that come from fossil fuels. It also improves air quality, supports better human health, and helps protect ecosystems and wildlife.
Solar also creates jobs. The Department of Energy’s 2023 U.S. Energy and Employment Report found growth in the clean energy workforce. Per the report’s press release, “Clean energy technologies, such as solar and wind, accounted for more than 84% of net new electric power generation jobs, adding over 21,000 jobs…energy jobs are expected to grow across the nation.”
Solar is good for your family, your neighborhood, and your city. It’s a win-win: with solar, you’ll save money and the environment.
How To Spot A Solar Scam?
When someone promises “free solar,” it’s important to ask questions and understand what’s actually being offered. At Uprise, our no-cost solar program is the real deal — it’s how we do business and it’s backed by local programs. But not every offer out there is legitimate. Sadly, solar scams do exist in the U.S., so it’s important to work with a trusted, vetted company.
First, know that the federal government does not install solar panels for free. While there are helpful incentives that can make solar more affordable, the government isn’t handing out free systems.
Also, be cautious of companies that ask for large deposits before doing any work. At Uprise, we start by creating a free solar design for your home — no pressure and no obligation. This design will show you how much of your electricity use could be covered by solar, how much you could save over 30 years, and what your payback period would look like if you choose to purchase the system.
Watch out for dubious PPA contracts as well. They might include things like escalator clauses, meaning a company can charge you more for electricity after a certain period of time. Uprise contracts do not include escalator clauses. (We also think PPAs are better than leases; here’s why.) Dig into any solar contract you’re offered — and ask us all the questions about the contract we provide. Transparency is very important to Uprise.
We always recommend taking your time and reviewing everything carefully before approving anything. You should never feel rushed into a decision — if a solar company pressures you to sign on the spot, that’s a major red flag.
The Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy has a great guide with solar shopping tips. (Also check out their Homeowner’s Guide to Going Solar!)
Any other questions?
We encourage you to reach out to us! Many of the team members at Uprise have spent at least five to ten years in the solar industry (some, even more!), and we like to think we’ve learned a few things along the way. We’d be happy to talk with you about all things solar. Call us at (202) 750-5718 or reach out online.
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