With third party ownership, pay less for power.

Going solar with $0 down through a lease or power purchase agreement is easy, and a very popular choice. It's really no different that what you do now with your utility, only costs much less per month. The solar company uses your roof to install the panels at no charge. In return you agree to lease the equipment or  purchase the power it produces. You do this through a contract, with a set term and either at a fixed monthly price, with a power guarantee, or by buying the power as it is being produced.

Third party ownership is an excellent way for people to go solar. It provides the ability to lower your monthly expense on electricity and go green for $0 upfront cost. It is also a great option for people who can't take advantage of the tax credit anyway; like people on social security or low income families. You have a monthly bill for electricity no matter what you do, right now it is expensive and increases 5-10% per year. You may as well make is cheaper, and predictable.