What’s The Difference Between a Solar Lease and PPA?

Switching to solar power is a great way to reduce energy costs and support a cleaner environment, but understanding the different financing options can be challenging. Two common choices for Texans looking to go solar are solar leases and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs). While both options allow you to enjoy solar energy without owning the system outright, key differences can impact your savings and long-term benefits. In this blog, ATX Solar will break down the distinctions between a solar lease and a PPA to help you determine the best solar financing options for Texans

What is a Solar Lease?

A solar lease lets you rent a solar energy system from a provider rather than buying it. You make fixed monthly payments to use the solar panels on your property, but the leasing company owns and maintains the system. The main benefit of a solar lease is that there are no upfront costs, making it easier to start using solar energy. The provider also handles all maintenance and repairs. However, you won’t get federal tax credits or rebates since you don’t own the system with a solar lease. A solar lease is a good option for homeowners who want predictable payments and don’t want to deal with upkeep, especially if they plan to stay in their home for the length of the lease.

What is a Power Purchase Agreement?

A Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) is a great option for Texas homeowners who want to save on energy costs without the hassle of owning a solar system. With a PPA, you pay for the electricity generated by solar panels installed on your home at a set rate, while the provider takes care of ownership and maintenance. One major benefit is that you often get lower energy rates than with traditional utilities, and you don’t have to worry about repairs. However, unlike a solar lease where you pay a flat fee for the system, your costs with a PPA depend on how much energy the panels produce, and rates may increase over time. Both options free you from maintenance, but a PPA might offer better savings on energy bills, while a lease offers more predictable payments.

Key Differences Between a Solar Lease and PPA

Choosing the right solar plan for your home is crucial, and understanding the best solar financing options for Texans can help you make an informed decision. The biggest differences lie in ownership, payment structure, maintenance responsibilities, and potential savings.

Ownership

Neither a solar lease nor a PPA allows you to own the solar panels installed on your home. In both cases, the solar provider retains ownership of the system, meaning you won’t be eligible for tax credits or rebates. However, the contracts differ slightly—leases typically last for a fixed term, while PPAs may include more flexible conditions depending on the agreement. For Texas homeowners who don’t want the responsibility of owning a system, both options provide an easy way to enjoy solar energy without the upfront investment.

Payments

With a solar lease, you make fixed monthly payments for the use of the solar panels, offering predictable costs throughout the lease term. On the other hand, a PPA charges you based on the amount of electricity the panels generate, so your payments can fluctuate depending on your energy use. If you prefer steady, reliable payments, a lease might be a better fit. However, if you’re looking to maximize savings on your electric bill, a PPA could offer more flexibility depending on your energy consumption.

Maintenance

Maintenance is typically covered by the solar provider in both a solar lease and a PPA. This means Texas homeowners don’t have to worry about repairs, equipment upkeep, or additional costs associated with system malfunctions. Whether you choose a lease or a PPA, hassle-free maintenance is a major perk for homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills without adding more to their to-do list. If you’re interested in maintaining your solar panels on your own, there are several effective steps you can take to extend their lifespan and optimize their performance.

Savings

A PPA can potentially offer better savings, especially if your home uses a lot of energy. Since you’re only paying for the electricity your solar panels produce, a PPA may help you reduce your overall energy costs compared to a lease. While a solar lease provides more predictable monthly payments, it may not offer the same level of savings as a PPA, which adjusts based on your energy usage. For Texas homeowners looking to cut their energy bills, a PPA might be the more cost-effective option in the long run.

Which Option Is Right for You?

When evaluating the best solar financing options for Texans, consider your financial situation and energy usage to determine which choice will maximize your savings. Start by looking at your financial situation. If you want to avoid upfront costs, both options let you go solar without a large initial investment. However, consider the long-term savings each choice offers. For homeowners with high energy usage, a PPA may provide better savings, as you only pay for the electricity produced. Also, think about your preference for ownership versus flexibility. A solar lease offers fixed monthly payments, while a PPA adjusts based on your energy consumption.

In summary, a solar lease gives you predictable payments and easy maintenance but doesn’t allow you to benefit from tax incentives. In contrast, a PPA can lead to greater savings, especially for high-energy users, but may have variable costs that change over time. Weighing these factors will help you find the option that best fits your energy needs and financial goals.

Start Your Solar Journey with ATX Solar

Ready to make the switch to solar energy? At ATX Solar, we’re committed to helping you explore the best solar financing options for Texans, ensuring you find the right solution for your energy needs. Our team of experts can guide you through the details of solar leases and PPAs, ensuring you make an informed decision that aligns with your energy needs and budget. Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward a brighter, more sustainable future!

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Phillip Thompson

Master of Record/ Master Electrician

As ATX Solar’s Master of Record/ Master Electrician, Phillip is responsible for designing and coordinating Residential and Commercial Solar installation. He’s been part of the ATX Solar team for over a year and brings over six years of solar industry expertise to the table. 

Prior to joining ATX Solar, Phillip was an instructor at a trade school. 

In his free time, he enjoys going to the gym. 

A Fact About Phillip: “I am one of the youngest Master Electricians in the state of Texas.”

Cassie Dunn

Operations Support Specialist

As Operations Support Specialist, Cassie Dunn helps support the project management and finance teams by overseeing customer payments, submitting applications, and working with finance companies to submit necessary documents.

Prior to working with ATX Solar, Cassie worked on the Energy Team at Veritas QA, a new residential construction inspection company. She helped to certify new construction homes for IECC, Energy Star, and HERS programs.

Cassie attended Juniata College and has been working in the solar industry since October 2025

Outside of work, Cassie loves to read, play games, binge TV shows, and spend time with family.

A Fact About Cassie: “I grew up beside a horse farm. I can also say the alphabet backwards in less than 5 seconds.”

Almira Manesiya

Human Resource Coordinator

Almira is ATX Solar’s Human Resources Coordinator. She is responsible for our recruitment efforts, onboarding new employees, and supporting the entire team through HR-focused tasks. She is an essential piece of our operations, ensuring employees are supported, valued, and ready to meet challenges. 

Prior to joining the ATX Solar team, Almira worked in administration at an HOA office, where she was responsible for building bridges between homeowners and the organization through effective communication, task management, and support. Although she’s new to the renewable energy industry, she is passionate about the advantages it offers to Austin-area residents. 

Almira graduated from the University of Houston. Outside of the office, she loves exploring new places, finding her next adventure, and being in the great outdoors. She is also passionate about self-care, shopping and spending quality time with friends and family. 

A Fact About Almira: “I’m a girly girl who loves shopping and spending time with my two adorable dogs—a Chihuahua and a Bichon Frise.”

Caleb Spencer

Director of Sales

As ATX Solar’s Director of Sales, Caleb Spencer empowers our team to provide excellent service to home and business owners throughout Central Texas so they can make the switch to clean, renewable energy. 

Caleb ensures the team is well-trained, supported, and motivated to provide an unbeatable customer service experience. From establishing efficient internal procedures and operations to building relationships with clients, Caleb helps our team thrive. 

Caleb graduated from Texas A&M and worked as a petroleum engineer prior to joining the ATX Solar team. His experience within the fossil fuel industry gave him a unique perspective on the benefits solar can offer to Texans. 

Outside of the office, Caleb loves to spend time in nature, hiking, and camping with his beloved four kids. 

A Fact About Caleb: “I was a semi-professional skateboarder in high school. I also played on a Texas State championships Baseball Team.”

Blake Dilks

Founder & CEO

Blake is the founder and CEO of ATX Solar. As the company leader, Blake brings strategic vision, decision-making, and dynamic organization to a complex and fluid work environment. He steers the shop, ensuring each department works harmoniously to build toward our company’s goals. From driving growth to fostering innovation, and putting out the occasional fire, he helps power our amazing team to excel. 

Blake has been here from the very start, when the team built a sales MVP over an Easter Weekend. Prior to founding ATX Solar, he cut his teeth at several national solar organizations. He also brings experience from 6+ years as a commercial electrician for IBEW, and another 6+ years in the insurance industry. He’s worked in the solar industry since 2017. 

Blake followed in his father’s footsteps, and attended electrician trade school after graduating. During that time, he also took on a full-course load to earn a business degree via night classes while working full-time. Despite these challenging circumstances, he stayed on the Dean’s List for two years. 

Outside of ATX Solar, Blake enjoys activities with his family. With them, he enjoys fishing, traveling, and boating. He is passionate about coaching youth sports, particularly baseball. He also finds home improvement projects rewarding, as well as craftsmanship such as woodworking. One of his favorite creations was a casino-grade poker table for his home. 

A Fact About Blake: I’ve been indirectly hit by lightning twice in the last 4 years!⚡️

Jackie Phillips

HR Coordinator

Jackie is our superstar HR Coordinator. She is responsible for facilitating recruiting efforts, managing employee relations and engagement, as well as providing guidance for continued growth. 

Jackie has been a part of the ATX Solar team for two years but brings a wealth of knowledge to our HR procedures as she’s previously served in the same capacity within the plumbing and HVAC industries.   

Jackie is a graduate of Florida State University. She is passionate about reading, games, puzzles, and helping her house plants thrive. 

A Fact About Jackie: “I was an army brat and lived overseas in Germany when I was younger.”

Joshua Collins

Master Electrician

Joshua is ATX Solar’s Master Electrician. In this role, he handles crew management, solar installations, CAD design, and on-the-fly problem solving to ensure safe operations for our installers. He’s an industry veteran, with 14 years of combined solar experience between ATX Solar and his previous employer. 

Out of the field, he enjoys spending quality time with his family, video games, music, and creating memories with friends. 

A Fact About Joshua: “I was a sponsored skateboarder in Seattle, Washington.”

Shannon Collins

Energy Advisor

Shannon is our resident Energy Advisor, with over 2 years of experience as a part of our team. She helps with our retail marketing efforts and manages other marketing responsibilities. Her knowledge helps us reach new audiences and educate them about the benefits of going solar. 

Shannon studied at the University of Phoenix. She loves spending time with her husband Josh and their three daughters. In addition, she enjoys swimming, biking, camping, reading, and completing volunteer work to give back to her community. 

A Fact About Shannon: I’m a twin and the shortest person in my immediate family.”

Will Martyka

Director of Operations

Will is the Director of Operations at ATX Solar. He is responsible for reviewing and evaluating business procedures and implementing policies that will improve day-to-day operations. He ensures work environments are safe and effective, and oversees the Project Management and Installation departments. 

Will is committed to helping each team achieve success and reach goals set by company leadership. 

He brings prior experience in Project Management at a different solar company but has been with the ATX Solar team for 5 years. He studied at Michigan State University.  

While not in the office, Will loves going to the beach, camping, hiking, and weightlifting. 

A Fact About Will: I like the Texas summer.”

Bobby Estevanes

Electrician

Bobby works as an Electrician at ATX Solar. In that capacity, he handles the installation and setup for electrical equipment like base batteries, combiners, connection to your Main Service Panel, as well as taking care of disconnects. 

Bobby brings previous experience in the solar industry, having previously worked for a different provider in California. He received his education at the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley. 

In his spare time, he enjoys working out, running, and spending time with his family. 

A Fact About Bobby: “I like to party.”

Matt Stevans

Director of Technology

Matt serves as our Director of Technology and allows us to stay on the cutting edge of tech, from tools to manage projects to going above and beyond to protect your information. He manages all business software, office hardware, information systems, and data. 

Matt attended college at the University of Texas at Austin, and worked in astronomical research and education prior to joining the ATX Solar team.

In his free time, Matt enjoys dancing, attending concerts, cooking meals, and going on hikes. 

A Fact About Matt: “I have a Ph.D. in Astrophysics.”

Anna Blanquet

Executive Assistant

As our Executive Assistant, Anna keeps our team humming through comprehensive administrative support. She helps manage scheduling internal operations, customer correspondence, inventory management, and event coordination, among many other hats she wears on a daily basis. 

Prior to her time with ATX Solar, she gained experience across diverse industries, including as a Personal Assistant, an English Teacher, and an Accountant. She received her education from the Autonomous University of Campeche. 

Outside the office, Anna enjoys travel, cooking, reading, and listening to her favorite music and podcasts. 

A Fact About Anna: “I practiced ballet for about 12 years and I’ve visited 10 countries”

Jake Hernandez

Project Manager

Jake is a dedicated Project Manager, here to ensure your installs move from consultation to completion efficiently and effectively. He has been with ATX Solar for two years, helping us deliver excellent finished projects time and time again. 

Jake attended the University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio. In his spare time, you can find him reading, building Legos, and occasionally playing Fortnite. He also loves to spend time with his dog, Romeo. 

A Fact About Jake: “My favorite artist is Olivia Rodrigo”

John Scearcy III

VP of the Home Services

John is our experienced VP of the Home Services Division and Safety Management. Although he’s one of the newest members of the ATX Solar team, he brings nearly three decades of experience across the construction and energy industries. 

John oversees site safety audits, project inspections, and leads our Home Services division. Prior to working at ATX Solar, he was the owner and operator of Leakproof Roofing Systems for 20 years and spent 9 years as a safety professional for Cupertino Electric Incorporated. He brings an additional year and a half of experience on commercial solar projects, including work on the Central Line/West Line in Casa Grande, AZ. 

When not providing his safety expertise to ATX Solar, you can find John training in human performance, including working out, fishing, bicycling, cooking, martial arts, and archery. 

A Fact About John: “Dark Sith force adherent. Father of one.” 

Amin Jooma

Energy Consultant

Amin is a passionate Energy Consultant at ATX Solar. He brings solar education to our local communities, delivering information about solar energy and assisting team members with proposal design. 

Amin brings a unique perspective to the solar industry, with prior experience in real estate marketing and professional business development. He attended Southern Polytechnic State University. 

In his free time, Amin is a fan of live music, Austin’s thriving comedy scene, and just about any outdoor activity you can do when it’s warm out. 

A Fact About Amin: “I can whistle through the corners of my mouth! In first grade, I convinced everyone it was coming from my nose when I turned my head”

Victoria Dilks

Head of Finance

Victoria serves as ATX Solar’s Head of Finance, bringing 5 years of experience and expertise as part of our team. Victoria oversees all of our financial operations, including invoice and payroll processes, and key accounting tasks. 

Prior to her time at ATX Solar, Victoria attended the University of Texas at San Antonio. When not managing the finances at ATX Solar, she enjoys reading and spending time with her family.

A Fact About Victoria: I’m a huge animal lover. I currently own 3 cats and 3 dogs.”