© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.
“This is so good to know.”
Photo Credit: Instagram
Many people have felt bummed about missing out on federal solar tax credits that expired at the end of 2025. But as one homeowner and landscaper shared on Instagram, there are still other ways to start using solar energy on a budget, even in the new year.
Nick Cutsumpas (@farmernick) posted a video explaining that he was unable to claim tax credits for installing solar panels in 2025.
A post shared by Nick Cutsumpas (@farmernick)
“It was a mad dash to find a solar provider in Michigan that could fit us in their schedule, and ultimately other home and medical costs proved more important, so I thought I’d missed my chance,” he shared.
However, he learned that the tax credit expiration date applied only to residential installations. Commercial companies could still receive the credit and pass the savings on to their customers. Then, he discovered Palmetto’s solar leasing program, which doesn’t require any upfront investment.
In the post, Nick also explained why now is an important time to install solar panels because of the growth of AI data centers, which are driving up utility costs for homeowners. “With Palmetto, I’ll be able to save at least 15% or more on my energy bills, all while using renewable energy,” Nick wrote.
Check out TCD’s Solar Explorer for more information about going solar and save up to $10,000 on installations.
Nick’s Instagram video is helpful because it offers hope and inspiration to other homeowners who thought they’d missed out on solar panel tax credit savings.
However you choose to go solar, harnessing the clean, sustainable power of the sun is among the most effective ways to reduce utility bills and protect yourself from rising energy costs.
FROM OUR PARTNER
Whatever your solar budget, Palmetto can help you save.
If you want to buy your own panels, Palmetto’s advisors can help you save up to $10,000 on installation through a network of preferred installers. And if you’d rather get solar savings without upfront costs, Palmetto’s revolutionary LightReach subscription program can deliver — including an exclusive $1,000 cashback offer for TCD readers.
LightReach lets you lease solar panels with no money down, making it painless to lock in long-term savings of up to 33% off your current power bill. Palmetto covers a 25-year warranty for the panels, which means you’ll get reliable performance without unforeseen costs.
To get started, just book a short meeting with Palmetto’s experts to explore your options and find the solution that’s right for you.
Smart Upgrades That Slash Monthly Energy Bills
If you need resources to help you get started on your solar journey, TCD has your back.
What’s the most you’d pay per month to put solar panels on your roof if there was no down payment?
$200 or more 💰
$100 💸
$30 💵
I’d only do it if someone else paid for it 😎
Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.
• EnergySage can help you save up to $10,000 on installations by curating competitive bids from local installers
• Not ready to spend up front? Palmetto’s $0-down LightReach solar leasing program can lower your utility rate by up to 20%
• TCD’s Solar Explorer makes it easy to access exclusive offers from preferred partners
Pairing solar with electric appliances can increase your energy savings even further. Check out TCD’s HVAC Explorer to get more information on slashing your heating and cooling costs by up to half. Plus, Palmetto’s free Home app can provide you up to $5,000 in rewards for home upgrades just for taking simple everyday actions.
Nick’s Instagram followers appreciated learning about the option to lease solar panels rather than purchase them. This is a budget-friendly alternative that can help advance the widespread adoption of residential solar power and support the broader transition to clean energy solutions.
“This is so good to know, thank you!” an Instagram user commented on the video. “We were quoted something waaaay beyond our capabilities last month, and have been feeling so bummed about it.”
“Leasing is the way to go to still take advantage of the tax credit,” another Instagram user agreed.
“Thankful we won’t be spending more money on the energy bills, thank god for solar,” someone else shared.
Get TCD’s free newsletters for easy tips to save more, waste less, and make smarter choices — and earn up to $5,000 toward clean upgrades in TCD’s exclusive Rewards Club.
© 2025 THE COOL DOWN COMPANY. All Rights Reserved. Do not sell or share my personal information. Reach us at hello@thecooldown.com.
