COMPANY CANCELLATION GUIDE
Tesla offers solar through purchases, loans, and a subscription model. If you have a Tesla Solar or legacy SolarCity agreement you want to exit, this guide covers your options based on our independent research.
Updated March 2026 · Not legal advice · Our methodology
Tesla's solar offerings have evolved significantly over the years, from the original SolarCity leases and PPAs to Tesla's current purchase, loan, and subscription models. Your cancellation options depend entirely on which type of agreement you have and when you signed. This guide covers what we've learned through our research -- always verify current policies directly with Tesla.
Important note: This guide is based on our independent research into publicly available information and consumer reports as of March 2026. Tesla's policies, pricing, and processes change frequently. We recommend contacting Tesla directly to verify any information in this guide. This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Tesla, Inc.
Understanding the history helps clarify which contract you may have:
You own the panels. If financed, you're repaying a loan. This is reportedly Tesla's primary current offering.
Tesla has reportedly offered a solar subscription in some markets, allowing cancellation with panel removal.
If you signed a lease or PPA with SolarCity before or shortly after the Tesla acquisition, you may still be under a long-term agreement (typically 20-25 years) with an escalator clause.
If you've ordered Tesla Solar panels but installation hasn't occurred, based on our research you may be able to cancel the order. Tesla's ordering process typically involves an online order with a deposit.
If you purchased Tesla Solar with a loan and the system is installed, you own the panels. Your "exit" options are:
Tesla's solar subscription model, where available, is reportedly one of the more flexible solar agreements on the market. Based on our research:
Note: Tesla's subscription availability and terms have reportedly changed over time and may not be available in all markets. If you have a subscription, review your specific agreement for cancellation terms, as they may differ from general information available online.
If you have a legacy SolarCity lease or PPA (now managed by Tesla), your exit options are similar to other solar leases and PPAs:
Guide to selling a home with solar →
If you were misled during the original SolarCity sales process, you may have legal grounds for cancellation. SolarCity was the subject of various consumer complaints and regulatory scrutiny over its sales practices. Common issues reportedly included:
Have a Tesla Solar or SolarCity contract you want reviewed? Get a free preliminary assessment.
Many Tesla Solar installations include a Tesla Powerwall battery system. If you're exiting your solar contract, consider these Powerwall-related factors:
Based on our research, Tesla Energy can be contacted through the following channels. Verify current information on Tesla's website.
Note: Based on consumer reports, reaching Tesla customer service can sometimes be challenging. Be persistent, document all attempts to contact them, and follow up in writing.
If you're unable to resolve your issue directly with Tesla:
Important: We do not advise homeowners to stop making payments or breach contractual obligations. Missed payments can damage your credit and weaken your legal position. Continue making payments while exploring exit options. Consult a qualified attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Based on our research, pre-installation cancellation is generally possible but may involve forfeiture of any deposit depending on your agreement terms and how far along the process is. Contact Tesla Energy support as soon as possible and put your cancellation in writing. If a contract was signed in your home, the FTC cooling-off period may apply. Pre-installation guide →
Tesla's solar subscription, where available, is reportedly cancellable without a long-term commitment. Contact Tesla through their app or customer service to initiate cancellation. Tesla reportedly handles panel removal. A cancellation fee may apply depending on your subscription terms and how long you've had the service. Check your specific agreement for details.
Yes. Tesla acquired SolarCity in 2016, and existing SolarCity contracts were transitioned to Tesla Energy. Your original contract terms should generally remain the same, but your account is now managed by Tesla. Contact Tesla's energy support team for any questions about your legacy SolarCity agreement.
For legacy SolarCity leases, check your contract's buyout schedule for predetermined year-by-year prices. For PPAs, buyout is typically based on fair market value. For Tesla purchases with a loan, your "buyout" is simply the remaining loan balance. Contact Tesla Energy for a current quote. Buyout prices may be negotiable with an independent appraisal.
Based on our research, legacy SolarCity/Tesla leases and PPAs can typically be transferred to creditworthy buyers. Contact Tesla Energy's transfer team early in the selling process. The buyer must meet Tesla's credit requirements. The process can take several weeks. Selling with solar guide →
If the Powerwall was bundled with your solar agreement, it's typically part of the same contract and would be included in the exit process (buyout, removal, or transfer). If you purchased the Powerwall separately, you own it regardless of your solar contract status. A Powerwall can function independently as a home battery backup even without solar panels.
Get a free preliminary contract review or see which exit companies our editorial team recommends.
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. This page is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by Tesla, Inc. Information is based on our independent research and may not reflect current Tesla policies. Results vary by individual situation. We do not advise homeowners to stop making payments or breach contractual obligations. SolarPanelExit.com and TRU Solar Cancellation share common ownership. Consult a qualified attorney before taking action. See our Ownership Disclosure and Advertiser Disclosure.