Going solar is a smart investment in your home and your future. But life changes. People relocate. Families grow. Homes get sold. One of the most common questions we hear is simple: What happens to my solar system if I move?
The good news is this. Solar moves with your home. In most cases, it makes your property more attractive to buyers and can even help your home sell faster. The exact process depends on how your system is owned or financed, so here is exactly what to expect.
If You Own Your Solar System Outright
This is the most straightforward scenario for resale.
When you own your system:
- The solar panels stay with the home.
- Ownership transfers automatically to the buyer.
- There is no monthly solar payment.
- The home is marketed with built-in energy savings.
Owned solar systems typically increase property value and appeal to buyers who want predictable, lower electric bills from day one.
Bottom line: Owned solar is a major asset in a home sale.
If You Financed Your Solar with a Loan
With a solar loan, you still own the system, but there is a remaining balance to address during the sale. You generally have three simple options:
1. Pay Off the Loan at Closing
The loan is paid off as part of the sale and the buyer receives the system free and clear.
2. Transfer the Loan to the Buyer
Some lenders allow loan transfers if the buyer qualifies. This allows the buyer to take over the remaining payments and continue enjoying solar savings.
3. Include the Loan in the Sale Price
Many sellers adjust the home price to account for the remaining balance so it can be resolved at closing.
All three options are common and manageable in real estate transactions.
If You Have a Solar Lease or Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)
Leased and PPA systems are also very common and are designed specifically to be transferable when a home is sold.
With a lease or PPA:
- The solar company owns the equipment.
- The buyer simply takes over the agreement after qualification.
- The buyer continues receiving clean solar power at a predictable rate.
- There are typically no equipment maintenance responsibilities for the homeowner.
This setup is attractive to many buyers because it lets them enjoy solar benefits with little to no upfront cost. The transfer process is handled directly with the solar provider and is a routine part of the sale.
Leased and PPA systems allow buyers to step into immediate energy savings without needing to finance or purchase a system themselves.
What Happens to Warranties and Monitoring?
Most solar warranties are fully transferable and remain active for 20 to 25 years depending on the equipment. This means the new homeowner continues to receive full equipment protection after purchase.
Solar monitoring also transfers with the home, allowing the new owner to track performance and production right away.
At EDGE Energy, we assist homeowners with monitoring transfers and system documentation to ensure a smooth handoff.
What About Net Metering and Utility Credits?
Net metering is tied to the home’s utility account and service address.
When a home is sold:
- The utility account moves to the new owner.
- Net metering continues automatically.
- Energy credits follow the standard utility billing cycle.
There is no utility penalty for selling a solar-powered home.
Does Solar Help a Home Sell?
Yes. Consistently.
Homes with solar often:
- Attract more buyer interest
- Stand out in competitive markets
- Provide built-in protection from rising electric rates
- Offer immediate monthly energy savings
Buyers understand that electricity costs continue to rise. A home with solar already in place is seen as a long-term financial advantage.
What You Should Do Before Listing Your Home
If you plan to sell a home with solar, take these steps early:
- Confirm whether your system is owned, financed, leased, or under a PPA.
- Request current payoff or transfer details if financing or an agreement is involved.
- Provide your real estate agent with your system details so they can market it accurately.
If your system was installed by EDGE Energy, our support team can supply documentation, warranty information, and assist with the transition process.
The Bottom Line
Moving after going solar is not a problem. It is a benefit.
- Owned systems transfer easily and add resale value.
- Loan-financed systems offer flexible payoff or transfer options.
- Leases and PPAs transfer smoothly and provide buyers with low-cost access to clean energy.
- Warranties and monitoring typically remain active.
- Solar consistently strengthens a home’s market appeal.
Thinking About Selling or Want Help Preparing?
If you are planning to move or simply want to understand your options, our team is ready to assist.
