How do solar financing options compare across different providers in the Philippines?
Last updated September 2, 2026
Residential solar in the Philippines is usually paid for in one of four ways — a cash purchase, a bank or personal loan, a solar lease, or a pay-as-you-go subscription billed monthly. They differ mainly in upfront cost, who owns the system, and how you pay over time.
A cash purchase has the highest upfront cost but the lowest lifetime cost, since you avoid interest. Loans and leases spread the cost over several years. Subscription and metered plans let you install with little to no upfront cost and pay a monthly amount — either a fixed figure or a per-kWh rate — that is often at or below your current electricity bill.
| Cash purchase | Loan (bank/personal) | Solar lease | Monthly / metered plan | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upfront cost | Full system cost | Low (often a deposit) | Low to none | Little to none |
| How you pay | One payment | Fixed monthly amortisation + interest | Fixed monthly lease fee | Fixed monthly fee, or per-kWh of solar used |
| Who owns the system | You, immediately | You (financed) | Provider, during the term | Provider, during the term |
| At end of term | Yours from day one | Fully yours once paid | Return, renew, or buy out | Often transfers to you or continues |
| Maintenance | Your responsibility | Your responsibility | Usually included | Usually included |
| Best for | Lowest lifetime cost, cash on hand | Owning while spreading cost | Low upfront, hands-off | Paying like a utility bill, minimal risk |
What to compare between providers
Beyond the payment method, weigh the total cost over the full term (not just the monthly figure), the equipment and workmanship warranties, whether the provider handles net-metering registration, and how the system is monitored and maintained. Two quotes with the same monthly price can differ significantly once term length, ownership, and inclusions are accounted for.
SunFund fits the subscription and metered category — see how monthly plans work or what to look for in a provider.