Question 1

Is no upfront solar a scam?

Accepted Answer

No upfront solar is a legitimate, regulated subscription model used by hundreds of thousands of households worldwide. The model originated in the United States and Germany, where over 50% of new residential solar installations are now funded through subscriptions rather than cash purchases. In the UK, the subscription model is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.

Question 2

What is the catch with no upfront solar?

Accepted Answer

The total cost over 25 years is higher than a cash purchase because the subscription includes interest, maintenance, monitoring, insurance, and replacement parts. However, when those costs are accounted for separately in a cash purchase, the difference narrows significantly. The subscription also preserves your capital and eliminates all financial risk associated with system maintenance.

Question 3

Do solar panels work on cloudy days?

Accepted Answer

Solar panels generate electricity from daylight, not direct sunlight. Output is reduced on heavily overcast days but does not stop. A typical UK system generates approximately 3,400–5,700kWh per year depending on size, even accounting for the UK's mixed weather.

Question 4

Can I cancel the subscription?

Accepted Answer

You can end your subscription at any time by paying the settlement amount — the remaining balance on the subscription. There are no early exit penalties. The system becomes yours immediately upon settlement.

Question 5

What happens at the end of the 25-year term?

Accepted Answer

Equipment ownership transfers to you at no additional cost. The solar panels continue generating electricity — most panels retain 80%+ of their original output after 25 years. You keep the system, continue reducing your electricity bills, and continue earning from the Smart Export Guarantee with no monthly payments.

Question 6

Will the monthly payment increase?

Accepted Answer

Monthly payments may include an annual increase — the specific terms are set out in your subscription agreement. Even with annual increases, the subscription payment is typically lower than the equivalent grid electricity cost, which has risen by an average of 5.5% per year over the past two decades.

	Buy Solar (Typical £10,000 system)	Solar Subscription
Upfront cost	~£10,000 upfront	£0 upfront
Month 1 position	£10,000 paid upfront	Net savings from month one*
Repairs & maintenance	You pay for all repairs and call-outs	Included for the full plan term
Battery & inverter replacement	Typically £3,000–£8,000 if needed	Included, even after warranties expire
Break-even point	Typically 7–10 years	Savings start from month one*
Long-term value	Modest lifetime savings after payback	Significant long-term savings over the plan lifetime*

Get Solar with £0 Upfront

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