Tesla to offer solar-panel rental plans in Mass.

Tesla is trying to spark its solar-panel business by letting consumers rent rooftop systems rather than buy them.

Tesla Inc. CEO Elon Musk announced the offering in a series of tweets Sunday.

The company will allow residents of six states, including Massachusetts, to rent solar-power systems starting at $50 a month for a small set-up.

Musk says consumers can cancel anytime, although Tesla's website says there's a $1,500 charge to remove panels and restore the roof to its previous condition.

Besides Massachusetts, rentals will be offered in Arizona, Connecticut, New Jersey, California and New Mexico.

Electric car maker Tesla bought residential solar installer SolarCity for $2.6 billion in 2016 but installations have plunged in recent quarters. Tesla stopped selling systems in Home Depot stores.

Associated Press