Can I Get Solar with Bad Credit?

Access to affordable, reliable energy is essential for every household. However, many families across the U.S. face high energy costs, with low-income households spending a disproportionate percentage of their income on utility bills compared to higher-income families. This "energy burden" is particularly severe for communities facing income insecurity, making solar energy a crucial solution for reducing long-term costs. Unfortunately, traditional solar leasing companies often impose financial barriers, making access to solar nearly impossible—especially for those with bad credit.

The Energy Burden on Low-Income Communities

The American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy (ACEEE) highlights that low-income households experience an energy burden three times higher than that of other households. This means that a significant portion of their income is allocated to energy expenses, leaving less for other essential needs. Factors contributing to this burden include energy-inefficient housing, outdated appliances, and limited access to energy-saving resources. Implementing energy efficiency measures can lead to savings*, but the upfront costs are often prohibitive for those who would benefit the most.

* Individual savings will vary based on your utility rate, energy consumption habits, solar system equipment installed on your property, tax incentives eligibility, weather, and other factors. Individual savings estimates are based on your solar energy production, your solar kWh rate, potential tax incentives, your utility kWh rate at the time of purchase and projected increase in the utility rate (based on historical data and national averages). Estimates do not take into consideration other changes in utility rates. Such changes could affect your overall estimated savings. PosiGen does not guarantee savings.

Traditional Solar Leasing and Credit Barriers

Many solar leasing companies use credit scores to determine eligibility, making it difficult for homeowners with low or no credit history to go solar. Most solar leasing companies require credit scores in the 600–700 range, limiting accessibility for homeowners in low- to moderate-income communities.

These credit score requirements often exclude the very homeowners who would benefit most from solar energy—those who face the highest energy burdens and have limited disposable income.

PosiGen’s Inclusive Approach: No Credit or Income Requirements

At PosiGen, we believe that access to affordable solar energy shouldn’t be determined by credit scores or income. That’s why we’ve designed our solar leasing program to be inclusive and accessible to homeowners regardless of their financial background. Here’s how PosiGen makes solar energy available for more homeowners:

• No Credit Check: Unlike many competitors, PosiGen does not require a minimum credit score for approval. We use homeownership and utility usage history instead of financial standing to determine eligibility.
• No Income Verification: We don’t ask homeowners to prove a specific income level to qualify for solar, making it easier for working-class families and retirees to access clean energy.
• Guaranteed Savings: Our solar lease includes energy efficiency upgrades, ensuring that homeowners maximize their savings and reduce their monthly utility bills.*
• Maintenance & Insurance Included: PosiGen’s lease program covers system maintenance and insurance for 25 years, giving homeowners peace of mind with no surprise costs.

* During the first 12 months after the date your system is operational, we guarantee that your post-solar electricity costs will be less than your pre-solar electricity costs. If your post-solar electricity costs are greater than your pre-solar electricity costs during that 12-month period, PosiGen will either (1) provide a bill credit representing the difference between your pre-solar and post-solar electricity costs, or (2) provide additional energy efficiency services at no cost. See Residential Solar System Lease Agreement for full terms & conditions.

The Importance of Energy Efficiency

Combining solar energy with energy efficiency measures amplifies the benefits for homeowners. Energy efficiency improvements minimize the amount of energy needed to heat, cool, and power your home. Consuming less electricity enables a solar energy system to meet a larger portion of your energy needs, which can further reduce your utility bills than solar alone. Improved home performance and reduced maintenance costs also strengthen home durability and make your home more attractive to future buyers. (posigen.com)

PosiGen provides a variety of free energy efficiency improvements, including air sealing, duct repair, programmable thermostats, and more. These upgrades not only reduce energy consumption but also enhance home comfort and health by improving indoor air quality and maintaining consistent temperatures. (posigen.com)

Community Initiatives and Partnerships

PosiGen is committed to making solar energy accessible to all, especially in underserved communities. In Rhode Island, for example, the Affordable Solar Pathways Program (ASAP) was launched to help low-income households lease rooftop solar panels at reduced costs. This initiative aims to ensure that all residents, regardless of income, can benefit from clean energy solutions. (providencejournal.com)

Through partnerships with local governments, non-profits, and community-based organizations, PosiGen brings solar education and resources directly to residents. These collaborations help to overcome barriers and make solar energy a viable option for more families. (posigen.com)

Success Stories

PosiGen's impact is evident in the thousands of families who have joined the solar revolution through our leasing program. In 2023 alone, over 6,000 families benefited from our services, saving an average of $640 per customer. This translates into an impressive total of 88 million kilowatt-hours of energy generated by our rooftop solar panels, effectively preventing the release of nearly 62,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. (posigen.com)

How to Get Started

If you're interested in reducing your energy costs and contributing to a cleaner environment, consider exploring PosiGen's solar leasing program. With no credit or income requirements, comprehensive energy efficiency upgrades, and dedicated customer support, we make it easy for homeowners who want to go solar.

Ready to see if solar is right for your home? Contact PosiGen today to learn how you can start saving with no credit or income requirements!

By choosing PosiGen, you're not only investing in your home's energy future but also joining a community committed to environmental sustainability and financial savings.*

* Savings vary depending on your energy consumption, home location and characteristics, and your utility’s policies.