How to Offer Finance for Solar Installations

Why Offer Finance for Solar Panel Installations?

Solar panel systems represent a significant investment for most homeowners and businesses. By offering finance options, you:

• Make solar panels more accessible and affordable
• Attract a wider customer base
• Increase average order values
• Speed up the sales process
• Stand out from competitors

"Flexible finance is a game-changer in the green tech industry, making solar power a realistic option for more people than ever."

Finance Solutions Suitable for Solar Panels

Consider these common finance options suitable for solar installations:

• Interest-Free Credit: Customers repay the purchase price in installments, with no added interest. Ideal for short- to medium-term agreements.
• Interest-Bearing Credit: Allows for longer repayment periods at agreed rates, keeping customer payments manageable.
• Buy Now, Pay Later: Customers benefit from deferred payments for several months, then begin regular installments.
• Personal Loans (via third parties): Some lenders provide unsecured loans specifically for green home improvements.

Table: Quick Comparison

Steps to Start Offering Finance

Follow these practical steps to bring finance options to your solar customers:

1. Partner With a Finance Broker

• Seek a UK FCA-regulated broker specialising in retail finance
• Ensure they can support your business model and volume

1. Choose the Right Finance Packages

• Work with your broker to tailor repayment periods, rates, and eligibility
• Consider customer profiles—business vs. domestic, average values, etc.

1. Integrate Finance Into Your Sales Process

• Train your sales team to present finance options clearly and compliantly
• Add finance calculators to your website and quotes

1. Compliant Marketing & Payment Process

• Adhere to FCA rules on promotions and customer communication
• Work only with authorised finance partners

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Top Tip:
Always check that any finance you offer is provided through FCA-authorised brokers or lenders. Non-compliance can result in hefty penalties.
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Customer Journey: What to Expect

• Pre-qualify customers for finance during initial consultations
• Gather key details for a soft credit check (with consent)
• Guide the customer through a quick online application
• Most decisions delivered instantly; funds are paid directly to your business upon completion

Example Pull Quote

"Customers tell us that flexible finance is often the reason they finally decided to invest in solar energy."

Addressing Customer Questions and Concerns

Some typical customer queries may include:

• Will finance affect my credit score?
• A full application involves a credit check which can impact their score.
• Can I repay early? Are there penalties?
• Most agreements allow early repayment—but always check the terms.
• What’s the minimum/maximum amount I can finance?
• This depends on provider criteria, but can range from £500 to £50,000+ for solar installs.

Regulatory Requirements and Compliance

As a solar installer, you’ll need to:

• Ensure your finance provider is FCA-authorised
• Follow Financial Promotions guidelines when advertising finance
• Train your team on the responsible presentation of credit options
• Maintain transparent documentation and offer pre-contractual information to customers

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Call to Action:
Want to add flexible finance to your solar installation offering? Contact a retail finance broker today and maximise your sales potential.
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How Offering Finance Benefits Your Solar Business

• Accelerates deal closure and cash flow
• Lets you compete on value—even with price-driven rivals
• Increases average project sizes (as customers can spread cost)

Explore partnering with a specialist retail finance broker to unlock new growth opportunities in the solar sector.