Best 5 Solar Companies in Bolingbrook, IL

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Bolingbrook

The cost and efficacy of solar panels often rely on the provider that installed them. Make your choice based on the following crucial aspects.

Licensing and Training

In Illinois, the state Commerce Commission licenses distributed generation energy contractors, including solar installers. Solar companies can also earn certificates from standards organizations and trade groups. The most recognized ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Bolingbrook

Your solar modules' type will impact how much energy you can produce. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and perform the best but cost the most. Polycrystalline panels generate less, but they're a great traditional option for low budgets. Thin-film panels have a low cost and are excellent for non-traditional roofs, but aren't recommended for large home installations.

If you'd like to charge an electric car or use your solar power in cloudy weather, you can pay extra for add-ons. By selecting the right components, you can make your panel array more efficient and user-friendly. Not all solar providers provide these extras, so look for a contractor that sells them if it's essential for you.

Most Bolingbrook homeowners opt for solar systems rated for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $18,800 to set up, considering both parts and installation. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Bolingbrook

There are a plethora of ways to pay for a solar energy system, and the right one will reduce your expenses. A few of the most common options include cash payments, leases, power purchase agreements (PPAs), and loans. Though it involves a large up-front payment, cash is the most affordable choice because it doesn't accrue interest and qualifies you for incentives. Solar loans are the runner-up option. As with a car or home loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for money-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 PPA lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be appropriate in specific circumstances. Look for installers that offer several payment plans to find the right fit for your pocket.

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

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.