Climate First Bank, powered by OneEthos, offers a 70/30 funding structure for solar projects. Under this structure, funding is divided into two milestones:
M1: 70% at installation completion and lender verification.
M2: Remaining 30% at passed inspection and approval of required documents.
M1: Initial Funding – 70%
The initial 70% funding milestone requires the solar installation to be completed and verified.
Required documentation:
As-built engineering plan set
AHJ-approved construction permit
Completed lender inspection confirming the system has been installed
Customer approval to release funds
Lender Inspection Requirements
Once installation is complete and ready for verification, the installer must request a lender inspection through the portal.
Depending on project conditions, the borrower may be required to provide photos, additional information, or property access to complete the inspection.
Inspection Fees
Initial inspection: No fee for the first visit.
Rescheduling fee: If the installer indicates the project is ready but the installation cannot be verified, additional review may be required and a $70 rescheduling fee will apply.
M2: Final Funding – Remaining 30%
The remaining 30% funding milestone requires a passed AHJ inspection and approval of the required documentation.
Required documentation:
Proof of passed AHJ inspection
Proof that Permission to Operate (PTO) has been requested from the utility
Signed lien waiver release
Customer approval to release funds
Note: Fully approved PTO is not always required for this funding milestone. Documentation confirming that PTO has been requested from the utility, such as an Interconnection Application, is sufficient. However, if neither a permit nor an inspection is required for the project, fully approved PTO must be provided.
Roofing Funding (If Applicable)
For eligible projects that include roofing, 100% of the approved roofing cost may be released before M1 and M2 funding upon completion of the roofing work and approval of the required documentation.
Required documentation:
Required roofing permit
Proof of passed roofing inspection
Signed roofing lien waiver
Customer approval to release funds
Important: All funding releases are subject to review and approval of the required milestone documentation. Missing, incomplete, or unacceptable documentation may require additional review.