If you think solar is too expensive, think about starting small, and adding on to your system.  It is possible, if funds are in short supply, as they are with just about everyone, to start with a small system and add panels as you get money. 

Most solar companies will not tell you that this could be done, because they want to maximize their sales price, and also, the tax credit is smaller.  But, if you are putting off adding solar to your home, it makes perfect sense to start small, with what you can afford, and upgrade the system at a later date. 

Just the small reduction in your electric bill is enough to get a relatively fast payback on your investment.  Also, starting with a small system may enable you to pay cash for the installation, rather than relying on expensive financing, or a lease/PPA agreement, in which you do not actually own the solar system.  Therefore, you get the tax credit, and the energy savings back in your bank account and benefit from it, rather than the PPA/lease company.   Also, the pay back time most likely is shorter.

So, rather than thinking solar is not affordable, consider thinking out of the box, and start small.