In recent years, Solar energy has become one of the most attractive alternatives for saving on your electricity bill. and contribute to the sustainability of the planet. However, the initial cost of installing solar panels at home can be one of the main barriers to taking this step. Fortunately, the market today offers a wide variety of options. financing options adapted to each profile and need, allowing you to enjoy the advantages of self-consumption sooner.
In this guide you will find All possible ways to finance your photovoltaic installation by 2025, with simple explanations and helpful comparisons to help you make the right decision. Whether you're looking for a short-term solution, want to take advantage of subsidies, or prefer to delegate the initial investment through models like renting or leasing, you'll find everything well explained and up-to-date here.
Why choose solar energy for your home?
Before addressing financing options, it is worth reviewing Why installing solar panels at home is one of the best long-term investments:
- Direct savings on your electricity bill: You can reduce your network consumption by up to 70%.
- Return on investment: The return is usually between 7 and 10 years, depending on the geographical area and the level of financing.
- Revaluation of the property: More and more homes are incorporating energy improvements, and photovoltaic installations increase their attractiveness and value.
- Access to aid and tax benefits: There are subsidies, property tax rebates and other tax benefits.
- Energy independence: you reduce your dependence on large electricity companies.
In addition, thanks to the guarantees offered by manufacturers and installers (up to 25 years for panels and between 10 and 25 years for inverters), Maintenance is usually not a problem or a significant cost.
Ways to pay and install solar panels: cash or financed?
The first question that arises is whether it is worth paying for the installation. cash or is it worth more finance itBelow, we show you the fundamental differences:
- Pay cash: It requires a considerable initial investment, but it avoids interest and allows you to take full advantage of public and tax incentives. It's the simplest and most profitable option in the long term if you have the necessary capital.
- Finance the installation: It allows you to enjoy self-consumption from day one without having to pay the full price. It adapts to different economic profiles and enables more people to access solar energy.
Be the owner from day one It's ideal in the long term, but financing options are designed to democratize access, and in many cases, the monthly savings can even exceed the amount due.
Top solar panel financing options in 2025
Below, we detail all the available alternatives, their differences, and advantages.
1. Financing through the installer
Most companies specializing in solar energy offer personalized financing plansIt's common to find agreements between installers and financial institutions to facilitate payment through monthly installments and with attractive terms, such as zero interest or minimal opening fees. For more information about Financing options for solar energy projects, you can consult the different programs available.
- Direct financingSome companies advance the investment and pass on minimal financial costs to the installment.
- Innovative models such as Solar Subscription: They allow you to start saving from the first minute with very competitive rates and extra benefits (for example, production and maintenance guarantee included in the first year or promotional grace periods).
- Flexible Payment short-term financing (for example, 3 interest-free installments), medium-term (10-22 months with minimum expenses), or long-term (up to 10 years depending on the installer/bank agreement).
Advantages: Quick, convenient, and easy to manage, as the installer handles everything. It usually includes a free, customized assessment, advice on current subsidies, and a single point of contact.
Drawbacks: There may be less personalized terms when compared to loans managed directly by your bank.
2. Personal loans and green credits
Another very common alternative is to go to your bank or financial institutions that offer specific products for Energy Efficiency , known as green credits. To learn more about the different renewable energy sourcesThese loans offer quite favorable terms. Most Spanish banks (Caixabank, BBVA, etc.) offer green lines for installing renewable energy.
- They allow you to finance all or part of the cost, with competitive interest rates and customized terms (usually between 5 and 10 years).
- They require standard documentation: employment status, income, ID, and sometimes a specific supporting document or profitability study.
AdvantagesLow interest rates, the ability to negotiate terms and conditions, and the freedom to choose the installer and product.
DisadvantagesBanking procedures are required, and the interest rate depends on each individual profile. Financial solvency and sometimes additional collateral are required.
3. Extension of the mortgage
If you already have a mortgage, it is possible to apply for one extension to cover the cost of solar panelsIn this case, the financing is integrated directly into the mortgage payment, which can be convenient as long as the bank's terms allow it. For more details, please consult articles on energy investments.
- Mortgage interest rates: generally lower than those of consumer loans.
- Ease of distributing the total cost over the very long term.
- Not all banks accept this option and it depends on the applicant's financial health.
ImportantIn the long run, you'll end up paying more interest due to the loan extension, even if your monthly payment is lower. The total additional cost must be carefully assessed.
4. Photovoltaic leasing
El solar panel leasing It's a similar approach to leasing. The installation company assumes the investment costs, you benefit from the energy produced and pay a fixed monthly fee for the duration of the contract. To learn about similar experiences, also check out Cases of investment in renewable energy in the Canary Islands.
- During the term of the contract, the installation is not your property.
- It includes maintenance, spare parts, and repairs, making it very convenient for users who want to avoid surprises.
- Sometimes, there is the option of purchasing the facility at the end of the lease.
Ideal for those who want to forget about management and maintenance and are looking for a solution with no down payment or initial investment. The main drawback is the lack of ownership of the facility.
5. Photovoltaic leasing
El lease It's an intermediate step between financed purchase and leasing. The installation company or financial institution owns the installation during the contracted period (which is usually medium-long term), and you pay a periodic fee. Unlike leasing, at the end of the contract you can Keep the installation by paying a final residual fee. For more details, visit information on renewable technologies.
- Ownership of the photovoltaic system passes to you upon termination of the contract.
- Generally lower installments than those of a traditional loan.
- Ideal for those who want to defer investment but want to own property long-term.
6. Photovoltaic crowdfunding
On the rise in recent years, the crowdfunding to install solar panels It consists of obtaining small loans or contributions from individuals or investors who, in return, receive an agreed-upon interest rate. For examples of similar projects, see renewables in different regionsSocial investment in renewable energy is growing rapidly, and it can be an attractive option if you're looking for diversification.
- Interest rates are usually lower than those at banks, as there is no massive profit motive, but rather a social or ecological focus.
- Ideal for individuals or communities that do not want to depend on large banking entities.
It's a good idea to review the terms and conditions carefully, as some platforms or communities may have specific criteria depending on the project.
7. Photovoltaic cooperatives
The solar energy cooperatives These are consumer associations whose main objective is to promote renewable energy. Funds can be pooled for joint or individual projects, which reduces costs and facilitates negotiations with installers. To learn more about these models, check out .
- They allow collective access to financing and more advantageous conditions (group prices on panel purchases, for example).
- There are cooperatives that manage aid, subsidies, and joint tenders.
- In some cases, collective self-consumption projects are prioritized.
Participating in a cooperative is an interesting option for those seeking a social and collaborative approach.
8. Consumer loans (less recommended)
It is possible to use standard personal loans to finance solar panels. However, this option typically has higher interest rates than specific renewable energy products or green lines from banks. To learn more about the market, it's a good idea to compare the available options.
- They do not require proof of where the money is going, but the interest rates and terms tend to be less favorable.
Only recommended if other more advantageous options are not available.
Grants, incentives and aid for the installation of solar panels
One of the keys to making investment in solar energy even more profitable is to access the subsidies, tax breaks and public aid which are renewed every year. For more information, you can consult Aid for renewable energy in Europe.
- State and regional aid: They usually cover between 40% and 50% of the cost for collective self-consumption, and similar percentages for individual projects.
- IBI bonusesMany city councils offer significant discounts on property tax for those who install solar systems.
- Additional grants for storage (batteries) and complementary wind energy, with aid of up to 70% in special cases or rural areas.
- Additional increases for small municipalities, adding up to an extra 5% in aid if you meet certain requirements.
It is essential to check current calls with local and regional authorities, as they vary each year and from region to region.
Comparison and summary of the different financing formulas
To choose the best option, the most important thing is to keep in mind:
- The total financial cost: Take into account interest, opening fees, insurance and additional expenses.
- Ease of accessSome options, such as installer financing or crowdfunding, are more flexible in terms of requirements.
- The duration and amortization period: The longer the term, the greater the monthly savings but the higher the total interest.
- Ownership of the facilityIn options like purchasing and leasing, you own the system after payment; with renting, you never acquire ownership.
- Included services: Maintenance, repairs, warranties and assistance may or may not be included, depending on the type of service.
| Option | Financial cost | Access | Does it include maintenance? | Final ownership? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Photovoltaic credit | Bass | Simple | No | Yes |
| Mortgage extension | Bass | Depends on the bank | No | Yes |
| Installer financing | Variable | Very easy | Variable | Yes |
| Renting | Monthly rent | Subject to study | Yes | No |
| Leasing | Monthly fee | Media | Partly | Yes (in the end) |
| Crowdfunding | Bass | Flexible | No | Yes |
| Cooperatives | Null | Simple | In a group | Yes |
What requirements are usually required to access financing?
Depending on the option chosen, requirements may vary. Generally, the following are required:
- Legal age and residence in Spain.
- Certain financial solvency: permanent contract, stable income or demonstrable work history.
- Ownership of the bank account where the direct debit will be made.
- For bank financing, tax returns, recent pay stubs, or proof of income are sometimes requested.
- For self-employed individuals, recent tax documentation may be required (form 130 or 131, for example).
For simple options like direct installer financing, the paperwork is usually minimal, and the process is quite agile.
How to choose the best option for your case?
The key is to compare alternatives. Request quotes to several installers, request simulations of quotas and analyze the total cost of each formula. You can also find out about renewable energy projects in your region to better understand the available options.
- If you are looking to save interest and are solvent, pay cash Is the best option.
- If you don't want to lose your capital or want to start saving now without an initial investment, choose flexible financing with rates that you can adjust to your needs.
- If you are looking for comfort and zero worries, consider the renting or a formula with maintenance services included.
- If you have access to aid and subsidies, make the most of public discounts and consult with your trusted installer.
Don't forget to ask for the Warranty of the installation (the best equipment offers up to 25 years for panels and at least 10 for inverters), and agrees to maintenance services that free you from hassles.
Frequently asked questions about financing solar panels
- Is leasing, renting, or buying better? It depends on each case. If you want to own a car, choose outright purchase or leasing. If you prefer to be carefree and don't mind ownership, renting is your best option.
- How long does it take to pay off the investment? Without financing, the real payback period in the southern half of Spain is about 7 years. With financing, the payback period can be between 8 and 10 years, although the energy savings more than offset the monthly effort. In areas with less solar radiation (northern Spain), the payback period can be extended by a couple of years.
- Can I access aid as an individual? Yes, individuals, communities, and even small businesses can benefit from state, regional, and local subsidies.
More and more families are opting for photovoltaics, motivated by the Real savings, energy independence, increased home value, and a push toward a greener futureWhatever your situation, the key is to stay informed, compare, and choose the option that best suits your daily life. Financing options in 2025 are more accessible and varied than ever, and with good advice and smart planning, solar energy will cease to be a privilege and become a sustainable and profitable reality for any home.
