With energy costs skyrocketing and Ameren Illinois rates increasing year after year, homeowners and businesses in Southern Illinois are looking for a better way to save money on electricity. Thanks to state and federal incentives, tax credits, and $0 upfront cost solar programs, going solar has never been easier—or more affordable.
At Autonomy Solar, we specialize in helping homeowners and business owners switch to solar with zero money out of pocket while maximizing their savings and incentives. Whether you’re looking for a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), a solar loan, or a USDA REAP grant for your business, we have the perfect solution for you.
In this guide, we’ll break down these three solar financing options and help you determine which one is right for you!
1️. Power Purchase Agreements (PPA): No-Cost Solar with Fixed Monthly Payments
A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) allows homeowners to switch to solar without paying anything upfront or taking out a loan. Instead of buying the solar system, a third-party provider installs, owns, and maintains the system on your home—you simply buy the power it produces at a lower, locked-in rate.
Key Benefits of a PPA:
✅ $0 Upfront Cost – No Out-of-Pocket Expenses – The solar company covers all installation costs.
✅ Fixed, Lower Energy Rates – Beat Ameren’s Price Hikes – Your rate is locked in, so no more unexpected increases.
✅ No Maintenance or Repairs – The provider owns the system and takes care of everything.
✅ Instant Savings – Pay Less Than Your Current Power Bill – Your monthly bill is replaced with a lower solar bill.
Who Should Consider a PPA?
If you don’t want to take out a loan or deal with maintenance but still want to save money, a PPA is the best option.
2️. Solar Loans: Own Your System with $0 Down and Maximize Savings
For homeowners who want to own their solar system and maximize long-term savings, a solar loan is the best option—and just like a PPA, it’s $0 upfront cost to get started.
Instead of paying a utility company every month, you make a fixed loan payment (often lower than your power bill), and once the loan is paid off, your electricity is 100% free.
Key Benefits of a Solar Loan:
✅ $0 Upfront Cost – No Money Out of Pocket – You can finance 100% of the system cost with no down payment.
✅ 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) – Deduct 30% of your system cost directly from your federal taxes.
✅ Illinois SREC (Shines Program) – Get Paid to Go Solar – Illinois pays homeowners through Illinois Shines, which sends solar renewable energy credit (SREC) checks based on the power you produce.
✅ Ameren Illinois Solar Rebates – Even More Savings – Ameren offers rebates that reduce your total cost even further.
✅ Increase Home Value – More Equity with Solar – Homes with solar sell faster and for more money.
✅ Lower Monthly Payments – Cheaper Than Your Utility Bill – Many loan options allow you to pay less than your current electric bill.
✅ Free Energy After Payoff – No More Utility Bills – Once the loan is paid off, your power is completely free for decades.
Who Should Consider a Solar Loan?
If you want to own your solar system, take advantage of tax credits and incentives, and maximize long-term savings, a solar loan is the best option.
At Autonomy Solar, we partner with top solar lenders to find the best financing options for you.
3️. USDA REAP Grants: Solar for Farms & Rural Businesses
If you own a farm, agricultural business, or small business in a rural area, you may qualify for a USDA Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Grant. This program provides grants and low-interest loans to help businesses go solar at little to no cost.
Key Benefits of the USDA REAP Grant:
✅ Up to 50% of the System Cost Covered – Grants can pay for half of your solar system.
✅ Additional Low-Interest Loan Options Available – Businesses can apply for extra funding.
✅ Reduce Business Operating Costs – Cut long-term expenses with solar savings.
✅ Eligible for Farms, Rural Businesses & Agricultural Producers – Many Southern Illinois businesses qualify.
Who Should Consider the USDA REAP Grant?
If you own a farm or rural small business and want to save on energy while getting free money from the government, this is the best option for you.
At Autonomy Solar, we help businesses navigate the USDA REAP grant application process to ensure you maximize your funding.
Which Solar Option is Right for You?
Each financing option has its own benefits. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Solar Financing Option | Best For | Upfront Cost | Key Benefit |
| Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) | Homeowners who want $0 upfront solar and fixed monthly savings | $0 | No maintenance, no debt, lower rates |
| Solar Loan | Homeowners who want to own their system and claim tax credits | $0 Down | Biggest lifetime savings, tax credits, higher home value |
| USDA REAP Grant | Rural businesses, farms, and agricultural producers | Varies | Up to 50% grant funding for solar projects |
Start Saving with Solar in Southern Illinois Today
At Autonomy Solar, we believe in making solar energy affordable and accessible for homeowners and businesses across Southern Illinois.
🌞 Interested in a PPA, loan, or USDA REAP grant? Our team will guide you through the process and help you find the best financing option for your home or business.
📞 Call or text (618) 443-7934
🌐 Visit AutonomySolar.net
Take control of your energy costs today—go solar with Autonomy Solar! 🚀
0 Comments