It is not possible to get free solar panels from the government. As we have discussed, these payment plans are simply just solar leases or PPAs, and while they don’t charge anything upfront, you do not own the solar system on your roof. It is instead the property of a solar company.
You pay for the electricity produced, without the financial benefits and incentives. This doesn’t mean that PPAs or solar leases are inherently bad or that they don’t work for anyone.
They can still save you money, but if you’re interested in how the federal and local government can assist with the cost of installing solar panels, it is best to instead look into the federal and local government tax credits and incentive programs.