SolarCraft Sees Bright Future in Solar Installation Leasing

One year ago, SolarCraft of Novato debuted an affordable home solar program, and since then it has seen appreciable growth in residential installations. So far, 23 local residential solar energy systems have been installed through a program that evolved from a partnership with SunRun.  

These installations over the past year mean that about 115 kW has been removed from the electrical grid, the company said. That translates to about 181,000 kWh produced on an annual basis. In terms of impact on our carbon footprint, it's the equivalent to removing 80 tons of CO2 from the environment every year, or removing 184,000 miles of driving per year, or the air-filtering properties of 16 acres of trees per year. 

The program enables homeowners to get solar power units installed on their property for little or no money down while simultaneously locking in a low monthly payment for clean energy.

It's feasible through a new financial vehicle called a solar lease, which is gaining in popularity, according to Kim Burnett, SolarCraft's marketing coordinator.

“This is becoming quite a trend in solar energy ... the homeowner buys the power from a third party (SunRun), who owns the panels, we install the panels on the homeowner's roof, and they are only buying the clean power the panels produce, not buying the panels themselves,” Burnett said. Customers typically save 10-15 percent on their monthly electricity bill, Burnett said. 

The program aims to make solar easy and affordable for any homeowner. Most clients opt for going solar with nothing down, Burnett said.

Customers typically find that they are paying less for electricity than what they had paid PG&E or Marin Clean Energy. SolarCraft said customers can not only lock in these lower electricity rates for 20 years but they also can have the peace of mind knowing that the system is being maintained. 

SolarCraft, which has been around since 1984, has also been active with commercial installations. Some of its recent clients include the Fort Ross Tasting Room, C&T Publishing, Altamont Apartments, Pacific Catch Restaurant and First Street Books. Installations in progress include Sunny Hills Services and United Cerebral Palsy.

Click here to learn more about SolarCraft's residential program.

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