Four ways to pay, and what each one costs you
The difference between these options is not the monthly figure. It is who owns the system and who keeps the benefit.
Comparing the options
Ownership is the thing to look at first, because it decides who receives the export credits and what happens when the property changes hands.
Paying cash
You own the system outright from day one.
The simplest arrangement and the one with no ongoing obligation. Certificates under the federal scheme are assigned to the installer and deducted from the invoice, so the amount you pay is already net of them.
Worth checking. Nothing to watch, beyond making sure the quote states what is and is not included.
Finance or a loan
You own the system. The lender holds a debt, not the equipment.
Spreads the cost over a term while leaving ownership with you. Because you own it, you keep the export credits and the benefit of the certificates in the same way a cash buyer does.
Worth checking. Compare the total repaid, not the weekly figure. Interest-free offers sometimes carry a higher cash price, which is worth checking before you compare quotes.
Lease
The provider owns the system. You pay for its use.
A fixed regular payment with the equipment remaining the provider's property. It can suit a household that wants the benefit without the capital outlay.
Worth checking. Read the end-of-term position and what happens if you sell the property. A lease attached to a house you are selling has to be dealt with at settlement.
Power purchase agreement
The provider owns the system. You buy the power it produces.
Rather than paying for the hardware, you pay a rate for the electricity generated on your roof. Availability depends on the provider and on your site.
Worth checking. The rate, its escalation over the term, and the transfer conditions if you sell are the three things that decide whether it is a good arrangement.
We are not credit advisers
Nothing on this page is credit assistance or financial advice, and none of it takes your circumstances into account. Finance products are provided by third parties on their own terms. Read the contract, compare the total amount repayable, and get independent advice if you are unsure.
[LEGAL REVIEW REQUIRED: if credit products are promoted or arranged, confirm whether an Australian Credit Licence or authorised credit representative status is required, and add the required disclosures.]
Common questions
Finance questions
What interest rate and what terms are available?
Rates, terms, fees and approval criteria are set by the finance provider and depend on your circumstances. We are not credit advisers and will not quote you a rate. Ask the provider directly for a written offer before you commit.
Do I still get the certificates if I finance the system?
If you own the system, whether outright or through a loan, the certificate benefit is already reflected in the price you are quoted. Under a lease or a power purchase agreement the provider owns the system and therefore the certificates.
What happens if I sell the house?
An owned system, cash or financed, is part of the property. A leased system or a power purchase agreement carries obligations that must be transferred or paid out at settlement, and that has to be disclosed to the buyer. Check the contract before you list.
Want the numbers on your place?
Send us your details and we will put together a written quote you can take to a lender, or compare against anyone else.
Or call us08 838 9999
Monday–Friday, 8am–5pm AWST
