Energy Finance

For the property owner to gain the full advantages of rooftop PV or solar hot water energy collection, a capital investment is needed. A number of options for capital finance are available. The investment payback period for the cash-poor owner is longer than for those with ready cash.

Home Equity

Refinancing a mortgage can provide access to home improvement capital. Or a separate home equity loan may also be considered.

PACE

Certain states offer PACE loans — Property Assessed Clean Energy financing, based on locally defined development districts.PACE Overview. 

Due to the PACE relationship with Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, and their regulator, the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), the PACE concept was restructured after a federal legislator review (mid-year 2011). Terms for the current program are found here.  PACE Now

Energy Trust of Oregon

Incentives combined with Oregon state rebates and federal tax credits can offset up to 50 percent of rooftop solar installation costs.
Energy Trust Renewables

Solar Loans

Bank loans are being made available to qualifying residential and commercial projects that indicate early investment payback. Several lenders in the Northwest offer solar loans.

The Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union has a “Energy Smart Loans” program that offers loans to homeowners. Puget Sound Cooperative Credit Union

Commercial lenders also offer financing. An example is found here. Commercial Solar Loan