Outright purchase, finance, or lease are the 3 options for getting solar. Many people prioritize this on their wish list, save up, and eventually can afford to do so. There may also be subsidies, rebates, and tax credits (federal and/or state) that may apply. New York, for example, is eligible for a max federal credit of -$5700 and a state credit of 25% of your system value to your income taxes. So that would shave off a lot.