Powering your home with solar energy can help slash your utility bills and reduce your carbon footprint — but the average $24,000 price tag can be a nonstarter for many homeowners.
In Illinois, as in the rest of the country, you’ve got the federal tax credit, which will cover up to 30% of the cost. But in the Land of Lincoln, there are also state programs offering major help.
One, Illinois Shines, provides up-front funding for solar panels through the purchase of renewable energy credits. Another, Illinois Solar for All, pays for folks who meet lower-income requirements to install solar panels with no up-front cost, said Vito Greco, director of solar programs at the clean energy advocacy group Elevate, which administers the program.
Going solar could be a big benefit, especially considering Illinois ranked in the top 10 nationwide for fastest-rising energy bills from November 2021 to November 2022, according to data from CNET sister site SaveOnEnergy. The average energy bill in Illinois rose 20.5% during that time.
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Here’s what you need to know about Illinois solar incentives and how to choose the best installer.
Read more: Just looking for an emergency backup? Check out portable solar panels and solar generators.
Illinois solar panel companies
There are 343 solar companies operating in Illinois, including 73 installers and developers, according to data from the Solar Energy Industries Association. So which one do you choose?
If you’re receiving state incentives, you’ll need to choose one of the approved vendors of Illinois Shines or Illinois Solar for All, whichever program you’re using. Get quotes from multiple installers, and check reviews and do other research to make sure you’re getting the best deal from a reputable company. Here are a few from our research and our list of best solar companies.
Sunrun
Instantly estimate your solar cost and savings. Pick a provider later.
The nation’s largest solar company, Sunrun does most of its business in solar leases, but does also offer installations for sale. It offers choices when it comes to panels and batteries, and strong warranties. Those warranties aren’t as strong if you’re planning to purchase panels rather than lease them, and the company doesn’t offer a price match guarantee.
Windfree Solar
Instantly estimate your solar cost and savings. Pick a provider later.
Based in Chicago, Windfree Solar has been in business since 2009 and operates across the Midwest. The firm, an approved vendor for both Illinois Shines and Illinois Solar for All, provides design, installation and monitoring services. It also sells battery systems.
Illinois has some robust incentives that can make it a lot easier for you to afford putting a solar system on your home. The state also has community solar options, which make it easy to take advantage of the sun’s power even if your home isn’t a perfect fit for panels.
