Credit Suisse has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in two companies to promote solar energy adoption among residential customers.
SolarCity says it is collaborating with Credit Suisse on a second round of investment to build solar projects. Each round included an investment of $100 million from Credit Suisse, for a total of $200 million.
SolarCity says the investments defray the up-front cost of solar panels for its customers, making it possible for them to install the solar panels for free and pay only for the solar electricity they produce, at a discount to utility rates.
Credit Suisse has also invested $200 million in SunRun, which owns, insures, monitors and maintains residential solar energy systems; homeowners pay a fixed rate for 20 years.
