Sunrun, the nation’s largest home solar company, will expand to Long Island to help homeowners go solar without high upfront costs. Sunrun applauds the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA) for opening its doors today to solar service so more homeowners can access clean power while supporting local jobs.

With solar service, also called third-party-owned solar, Sunrun owns the solar system and works with local partners to install it on a customer’s roof. Homeowners pay a low rate for the power, and Sunrun monitors and maintains the system for free. On Long Island, many homeowners will be able to make the switch with no upfront payment.

“LIPA’s decision supports consumer choice, makes solar more attainable for families of all incomes and demonstrates a strong commitment to job creation,” said Sunrun co-CEO Lynn Jurich. “Sunrun looks forward to a successful, cost-effective program for scaling equal access to home solar on Long Island.”

Previously, homeowners could only use LIPA incentives if they could afford to purchase a solar system for thousands of dollars. Now, those who choose solar service to eliminate high upfront costs can also participate in LIPA’s rebate program. Homeowners prefer solar service over cash purchase in the nation’s top solar markets.

“This opportunity helps further Governor Cuomo’s clean energy goals for New York while benefiting the local economy,” added Jurich of Sunrun.

Programs that offer equal treatment for all home solar choices, third-party-owned and cash purchase, have a proven track record of success. For example, solar service has delivered over $1 billion to the California economy since Sunrun introduced it in 2007. LIPA’s program now allows for similar economic and consumer opportunities on Long Island. www.sunrunhome.com