Best 5 Solar Companies in Milton, IL

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Milton

The purchase price and performance of solar panels often depend on the solar company that mounted them. Here are some crucial criteria to consider while shopping for a solar specialist.

Licensing and Training

In Illinois, the state Commerce Commission licenses distributed generation energy contractors, including solar contractors. Solar companies can also pursue accreditations from trade groups and standards organizations. The most recognized ones in the industry come from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Milton

Your solar panels' model will affect how much energy you can generate. 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 are excellent for non-traditional roof shapes and cost the least, but don't work well for large residential installations.

Additional components, such as battery storage and electric vehicle (EV) chargers, will raise your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar provider offers these extras, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's crucial for you.

Generally speaking, it costs about $18,800 for a five-kilowatt solar array in Milton. This table lists more specific costs for different solar panel types and system components in your area.

Financing Solar Energy in Milton

Choosing the best financing option will impact your overall solar system cost and potential savings. Common payment options include cash payments, leases, power purchase agreements, and loans. We recommend paying with cash or securing a solar loan for the highest return on investment (ROI). Cash payments require a hefty sum up-front, but you’ll pay the least long-term by avoiding interest. You’ll also have full ownership of your system and can apply for solar panel incentives to minimize your total costs. Solar loans are another solid option if you don’t want to make a big initial investment. You can pay for your system in monthly installments while still benefiting from energy bill savings and solar incentives. However, you’ll pay more in total due to accruing interest. 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 don't recommend these options since you won't own your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in specific circumstances. We suggest working with a contractor that offers multiple financing options. Talk to each consultant about what's available, and obtain more than one estimate for the best odds of keeping within your financial plan.

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

The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on total system costs, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Local governments and utilities might also offer their own incentives, rebates, and financing programs that could save you more money.