How to Find the Best Solar Providers in Illinois

There are various factors involved when choosing the best solar provider in Illinois. You must consider the quality of equipment they use, whether they provide warranties and guarantees, and their installation methods. Other factors to consider include financing options, customer reviews, and their attention to aesthetics.

We have collected information from five solar providers in Illinois so you can compare to find the one that’s right for you.

Sunrun

Sunrun was established with a vision to pioneer residential solar, storage, and energy services across the U.S. The company handles solar installations and has various financing options for specific customer needs. Their Sunrun Guarantee provides comprehensive maintenance and repair services for the systems’ lifetime A+ rating

ION Solar

ION Solar provides a high level of service. They offer comprehensive services with support from the beginning of your design to installation and beyond. The company provides free quotes and a financing program. Its reliable systems are backed by extensive warranties and guarantees.

The company has a 4.5+ star rating across 7000 ION Solar customers. They have an A+ BBB Rating and are in the top 5 for residential solar. They have completed over 85,000 installations across the United States.

LGCY Power SC

LGCY Power offers premium smart solar products for your home. They aim to educate customers with optimal transparency in the installation process and by letting them know how much they’ll save. The company offers customized services ensuring you get the best results from your solar panels.

The solar provider has an A+ rating with the BBB. They have also been recognized by the Utah One Hundred, INC 5000, and Fast Business. LGCY was awarded a company favorite in 2022.

Kaizen

Kaizen provides solar solutions for commercial and residential properties.  They use high-quality panels ensuring optimal durability. The company is based in Chicago, Ill, ensuring they are familiar with the needs of the local community.

As an early company, Kaizen is not yet BBB accredited. It employs just over 10 workers and has served over 100 customers. It shows promise in developing into an industry leader.

Bright Solar Marketing

Bright Solar Marketing is focused on customer service. Its technicians provide transparency by educating customers and allowing them to make their own decisions. The company prides itself on authenticity and integrity.

Average Cost of Solar Panels and Installation in Illinois

2024 Energy Sage statistics show the average cost of solar panels and installation is $3.05 per watt. This totals $15,241 for a 5kW system. However, price ranges for installation in the state fall between $12,995 and $17,527.

Illinois Solar Incentives, Tax Credits, and Rebates

The Federal Tax Credit: Illinois residents are eligible for the federal tax credit equaling 30% of total installation and equipment costs. As a credit, it will reduce the amount you owe on taxes. If your credit is greater than what you owe, it will roll over to the next tax year. The credit is scheduled to reduce to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034 before phasing out completely.

• Illinois Shines Program: This program provides a one-time payment in exchange for Solar Renewable Energy Certificates. You earn one SREC for every megawatt-hour of electricity your solar panels are expected to produce over 15 years. The amount you earn varies depending on the size of your panel and your utility company. SRECS are limited each year and the rate declines annually so the sooner you cash in the better. SRECs are no longer available for 23-24, but you may apply for next year’s waitlist.

• Illinois Solar For All Program: Solar for All makes solar more accessible to low-income families. Your household must earn 80% or less of the Area Median Income to qualify. Participants will save on electricity as the costs and fees won’t be more than half of the energy it produces. So, if the solar panels produce $100 in energy monthly, you won’t owe your solar company more than $50. Households can choose from various financing options including loans, leases, and PPAs.

• Smart Inverter or Distributed Generator Rebate: This rebate is available to ComEd and Ameren customers who own solar systems with smart inverters. You will earn $300 for every Kw of solar or kWh of energy storage you install.

• Solar Tax Exemptions: Illinois solar residents may qualify for tax exemptions, so they don’t need to pay higher property taxes for solar installation.

• Net Metering: Net metering is available in Illinois. Utility company consumers can send unused solar energy back to the grid for credits on their electricity bill.

• Energy Storage Incentives: Illinois offers incentives that lower the cost of solar storage. ComEd and Ameren customers can earn $300 per kWh of energy storage by participating in the demand response program. Ameren’s demand response program will also get you credits on your electric bill.

How to Choose the Right Illinois Solar Power Provider

Here are some things to consider when choosing a solar provider in Illinois:

Quality Equipment: Choose a company that provides efficient equipment that withstands the test of time.

• Customer Reviews: Check out customer reviews to determine the provider’s level of service.

• Warranties and Guarantees: The company should offer warranties and guarantees for their labor and equipment.

• Financing: Many solar companies offer financing minimizing the stress of working with a financial institution. If you work with a company that offers financing, find out their rates and policies.

• Tailored Solutions: The provider should work with you to design an installation that meets your solar needs and works with your home’s aesthetics.

The companies listed above offer various advantages for Illinois residents, but which is the right choice for your needs? Solar America will help you decide.

Input your contact information in our online form. Our database will return results for providers in your area. Compare to determine which is best for your needs. Our competitive system ensures you get optimal results.

Contact us to learn more about providers in your area.