Instead of paying the upfront cost of the solar equipment and installation, homeowner who sign solar leases will put up little or no money upfront.

FORBES: Startup OneRoof Energy Secures $100M Fund For Solar Homes

Some companies have asked their employees to sign waivers before using the equipment, say treadmill desk manufacturers.

WSJ: Workstations to Help You Get Fit Have Risks Too

Another poor sign--sales to equipment manufacturers have been falling.

FORBES: A Bleak Outlook for OmniVision

In fact, Smith says, the higher prices are a sign that it's time to buy more equipment to increase capacity.

FORBES: Winner Of The Week: BP

The one, very modestly encouraging sign is a small upturn in investment in computer equipment and software, though this comes after nearly two years of decline.

ECONOMIST: Wobbling

Afghan journalists can get help there with their work, sign up for courses, use a library and modern communication and publishing equipment, and attend discussions and lectures given by local and foreign guests.

UNESCO: Communication and Information

Homeowners typically sign a long-term contract of 15 to 20 years with the companies that pay for solar equipment and labor and make sure the solar panels work properly during the lifetime of the contract.

FORBES: Solar Leases Will Drive Solar Home Growth to $5.7B