Don't buy the solar panels -- buy the electrons. That is the philosophy of Gap Inc. and a growing number of companies that are getting the advantages of fixed-price solar without the up front cost or management hassle.

MMA Renewable Ventures is building a solar power facility adjacent to Gap distribution center in Fresno, California. MMA will own and operate the system, and Gap has contracted to buy a set amount of electricity for 20 years. The technology is from SunPower and will generate 1.9 million kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per year.

This model is appealing to companies who are not interested in paying the upfront cost for solar but are nervous about the rising cost of electricity from fossil fuel sources. A similar financing method for homeowners is available from companies such as SunRun Generation.

Companies will pay more than if they bought the panels themselves, but it is a path of least resistance to solar for companies located in places where the sun shines reliably.