Best 5 Solar Companies in Chicago, IL

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Chicago

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar array. Consider each of these aspects in your business search.

Licensing and Training

In Illinois, the state Commerce Commission issues licenses to distributed generation energy contractors, including solar installers. Check for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar industry's most respected trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.

Cost of Solar Panels in Chicago

Different solar panel types look and perform differently. Monocrystalline panels cost more than other options, but they generate the most power and generally have the highest quality. Polycrystalline panels provide a lower price point but produce less power. Thin-film panels work well for small projects like RVs and sheds, but they're not ideal for larger installations due to their low performance.

You can also add electric car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can improve your solar system's efficiency. Not all solar providers provide these additional features, so look for a company that installs them if it's important for you.

If you're a resident of Chicago and are looking into a five-kilowatt solar energy system, you could plan to spend about $18,800 for materials and labor. Find more information on specific component and solar panel costs in the table.

Financing Solar Energy in Chicago

Solar contractors offer multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), solar leases, cash payments and solar loans. Though it requires 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 second most effective option. As with a car loan or mortgage, 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 involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) permits you to pay a monthly rate determined by the energy you use, like an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the panels and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Ask each business you're vetting about the payment plans it offers. A representative can help you determine the most suitable option for your budget.

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

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar power systems until the year 2032. City and state officials and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and specialized financing options that could save you more.