Family enjoying solar-powered home in North Dakota - Solar Lease Cost

Solar Panel Lease Cost in North Dakota

Updated 2026 guide to solar panel lease and PPA costs, savings, and providers in North Dakota.

Solar Lease Cost Summary

$34-$59Monthly Lease Payment
$0.09Avg. PPA Rate/kWh
$13Est. Monthly Savings
$0Upfront Cost
25 yrLease Term
1.9%Annual Escalator

What Does a Solar Lease Cost in North Dakota?

Solar panel leases in North Dakota typically cost $34-$59 per month for a 6kW system with $0 down. With average electricity rates of $0.11/kWh, North Dakota homeowners who lease solar panels can save an estimated $13/month on their energy bills. Solar leasing is limited but growing in North Dakota, with standard lease terms of 20-25 years.

A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) in North Dakota typically offers rates of $0.08-$0.10/kWh, compared to the average utility rate of $0.11/kWh. This means you pay less for every kilowatt-hour your panels produce, with savings starting from day one.

Most solar leases in North Dakota include an annual escalator of 1.9%, which means your payment increases slightly each year. Even with the escalator, lease payments are designed to remain below projected utility rates, which historically rise 2-3% annually.

Solar panels on rooftop in North Dakota

Should You Lease or Buy Solar Panels in North Dakota?

North Dakota's electricity rates of $0.11/kWh are below the national average, which means the savings from leasing vs. buying are closer together. A solar lease can still reduce your monthly energy costs with zero upfront investment, but homeowners who can afford to purchase may see better long-term returns.

Lease Advantages

  • $0 upfront cost
  • Maintenance included
  • Immediate savings of ~$13/mo
  • No system ownership risk

Purchase Advantages

  • You claim 30% tax credit
  • Higher long-term savings
  • Increases home value
  • No monthly payments (if cash)

Purchasing cost: A 6kW system in North Dakota costs approximately $12,390 after the 30% federal tax credit.See full North Dakota solar costs →

Lease vs. Buy vs. PPA Comparison

FeatureBuy (Cash/Loan)Solar LeasePPA
Upfront Cost$15,000-$25,000$0$0
Monthly PaymentNone (or loan payment)$50-$150/moPer kWh used
System OwnershipYou own itLeasing companyPPA provider
Federal Tax Credit (30%)You claim itLeasing company claimsProvider claims
25-Year SavingsHighest ($20K-$50K+)Moderate ($10K-$25K)Moderate ($10K-$25K)
MaintenanceYour responsibilityIncludedIncluded
Home Value ImpactIncreases valueMinimal impactMinimal impact
Contract LengthNone20-25 years20-25 years
Best ForMax savings & ownership$0 down, predictable cost$0 down, pay per kWh

Solar Leasing Companies in North Dakota

Solar leasing is limited but growing in North Dakota. Top providers include:

SunrunTesla SolarPowerhome Solar

Availability varies by location within North Dakota. Get quotes from multiple providers to compare.

Important: Tax Credit & Incentives with Leasing

When you lease solar panels, the leasing company — not you — claims the 30% federal tax credit and any applicable state incentives. This is factored into your lower monthly payments. If you want to claim the tax credit yourself, you need to purchase the system.View all North Dakota solar incentives →

Get Your Free Solar Quote

No obligation • Compare top installers

Suburban home with solar panels on roof

Ready to go solar?

Get free quotes from top installers in your area

Residential house with modern solar energy system in North Dakota - Solar Lease

Solar Lease FAQ - North Dakota

Solar panel leases in North Dakota typically cost $34-$59 per month for a standard 6kW system with $0 down. Your actual lease payment depends on system size, the leasing company, and your specific location within North Dakota. Lease payments are designed to be lower than your current electricity bill, providing immediate monthly savings of approximately $13. Compare quotes from multiple North Dakota solar leasing companies to find the best rate.

Whether a solar lease or PPA is better in North Dakota depends on your preferences. A PPA in North Dakota typically offers rates around $0.09/kWh, which is below the local utility rate. PPAs are better if your energy usage varies seasonally, since you only pay for what the panels produce. A solar lease provides fixed monthly payments, which is better for predictable budgeting. Both options require $0 down and include maintenance. Compare offers from North Dakota providers offering both options.

For most North Dakota homeowners who can afford the upfront cost or qualify for a solar loan, buying provides 40-70% more savings over 25 years because you claim the 30% federal tax credit and keep all electricity savings. However, leasing is an excellent option if you want $0 upfront cost and maintenance-free solar energy in North Dakota. Leasing also makes sense if you have low tax liability and cannot fully benefit from the federal tax credit. Consider your budget, how long you plan to stay in your North Dakota home, and your financial goals.

Major solar leasing companies operating in North Dakota include national providers like Sunrun, SunPower, and Tesla Solar, as well as regional companies. Availability varies by location within North Dakota. When comparing North Dakota solar leasing companies, evaluate the monthly payment, annual escalator rate, performance guarantee, maintenance coverage, and end-of-lease options. We recommend getting quotes from at least 2-3 companies to compare terms and find the best deal for your North Dakota home.

Most solar leases in North Dakota include early termination provisions, but they typically involve paying a fee or the remaining lease balance. Some North Dakota leases offer a buyout option after 5-7 years at a predetermined price. If you are selling your North Dakota home, you can usually transfer the lease to the new buyer. Before signing a lease, carefully review the early termination terms, transfer process, and any associated fees. Negotiate favorable terms upfront, as North Dakota lease terms can vary significantly between providers.

Rooftop solar panels reflecting sunlight in North Dakota - Solar Lease

More Solar Resources for North Dakota

Solar in Nearby States

Solar powered neighborhood homes

Start Saving with Solar Today

Join thousands of homeowners who've switched to clean energy

Get Your Free Quote
30%Federal Tax Credit
25+Year Savings
$0Down Options