Source: CommonCurrent.com

Lennar Corporation, one of the leading U.S. builders of quality homes, announced today that the Company is the first high-production homebuilder in the U.S. to successfully launch a solar lease program that virtually eliminates up-front costs and provides homeowners with below-market energy rates. In partnership with SunPower Corporation, Lennar introduced the innovative leasing program last year with sales of energy-efficient Lennar homes in California. Under the program, called SunPower Access, Lennar homeowners lease a high-efficiency solar system that generates most of a home’s electricity at a cost below current utility rates for the average homeowner. As utility rates increase, so will savings–providing homeowners a hedge against soaring energy costs. Lennar’s solar-leasing program is supported by a wide range of government, business and environmental leaders, including California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger. Click here to learn more about this unique and innovative solar program!

One of the country’s largest home builders is offering a new financing option that could make it easier for people to afford solar-powered homes. Calling it the first large-scale program of its kind, Lennar Corp. plans to announce Tuesday a partnership with solar panel manufacturer and installer SunPower Corp. to lease panels rather than requiring home buyers to purchase the technology outright along with the house. Last year, Lennar and SunPower launched a successful test run of the leasing option in 150 Sacramento homes. Under the program, customers would essentially buy the electricity produced by the solar panels, making monthly payments to SunPower that the company says will average $65 over 10 years, or about $7,800 total. Click here to read more about this unique Solar program!