Best 5 Solar Companies in Algonquin, IL

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Algonquin

Choosing a company is the first step toward a well-oiled and cost-efficient solar array. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.

Licensing and Training

In Illinois, the state Commerce Commission issues licenses to distributed generation energy contractors, including residential solar contractors. You should also visit a company's website to learn about its private certifications. Two of the most prestigious are the PV Installation Professional and Solar Heating Installer certificates, granted by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Some companies don't publish this information online, so you should also ask your estimator about them.

Cost of Solar Panels in Algonquin

The style of solar panels you select determines how much power you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels work with a tried-and-true mechanism and cost less, but produce less power. Thin-film panels aren't recommended for large residential installations, but they are ideal for small projects like converting RVs and sheds.

You can also add battery backups and electric vehicle (EV) chargers. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can maximize your solar system's performance. Not all solar companies provide these extras, so look for a company that installs them if it's a priority for you.

A majority of Algonquin homeowners opt for solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems cost about $18,800 to install, considering both parts and installation. You can see more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Algonquin

Choosing the optimal financing option will impact your overall solar system cost and expected savings. Common payment options include leases, cash payments, power purchase agreements, and loans. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most cost-effective choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the runner-up option. As with a home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for cost-saving solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly rate to rent your panels, while a power purchase agreement lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in specific circumstances. Look for companies that offer several payment plans to find the right fit for your wallet.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Algonquin.

A 26% federal solar tax credit applies to new residential solar equipment purchased through 2032. Extra incentives may be available through city and state governments, usually in the form of rebates and special financing programs.