Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy offers multiple advantages. Let's look at a few of them.
- Lowered energy bills: With a solar array, you create power without paying the tacked-on costs of grid-tied power. Going off-grid can eliminate your bills completely. Plus, a significant amount of states have adopted net metering, which permit you to earn money by selling your unused energy back to the grid.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have reliable energy during grid outages and storms.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Solar is one of the universe's most abundant clean energy sources, meaning you can minimize or conquer your home's dependence on non-renewable sources.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Normal Homeowners?
Governments and utility companies often reward homeowners for adopting solar. Here are some of the tax credits, rebates, or other programs you could qualify for.
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
Varies
Incentive Type: Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
Website: icc.illinois.govIncentive Amount:
Negotiated with procurement administrators
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: powermoves.comIncentive Amount:
Dual Fuel Heat Pump: $500
Variable Speed Pool Pump: $250
Air-Source Heat Pump: $250 - $750
Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500
Heat Pump Water Heater: $400/unit
HVAC: Varies depending on ZIP code. See program website
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: cornbeltenergy.comIncentive Amount:
Dual Fuel Heat Pump: $500/unit
Pool Pump: $250/unit
Air Source Heat Pump: $250 - $750/unit
Heat Pump Water Heater: $400/unit
Geothermal Heat Pump: $1,500/unit
Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit
Website: ecowatch.comIncentive Amount:
30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.
How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Normal
Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar array. Make your choice based on the following vital factors.
Licensing and Training
In Illinois, the state Commerce Commission issues licenses to distributed generation energy contractors, including solar installers. Look for private accreditations from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), among the solar sector's most trusted trade groups. Its program includes certifications for both solar photovoltaic and water heating installers.
Cost of Solar Panels in Normal
Your solar panels' style will affect how much power 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.
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 performance. Not all solar companies provide these add-ons, so look for a company that sells them if it's important for you.
You can plan to spend about $18,800 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Normal. Check the table in this section to get an idea of what amount Normal solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.
| Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Solar Monocrystalline | $1,223 |
| Solar Polycrystalline | $954 |
| Thin-Film | $557 |
| Solar Battery | $782 |
| Solar Home EV Charger | $2,934 |
Financing Solar Energy in Normal
There are many ways to pay for a new solar system, and the right one will lower your costs. A few of the most common options include cash payments, leases, loans, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments require a large up-front sum, but they help you avoid paying interest, grant you system ownership, and qualify you for cost-saving solar incentives. Solar loans have the same benefits, though you'll pay more in total due to interest and fees. Similar to a home or car loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with potentially $0 down. Solar leases involve paying a set monthly rate to use rooftop panels. A PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) lets you 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 solar system and cannot use solar incentives. We advise working with a company that offers multiple financing options. Ask each consultant about what's available, and acquire more than one estimate for the best odds of keeping within your spending limits.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Normal.
You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Local and state governments and utility companies might also offer rebates, discounts, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.
| Solar System Capacity | Estimated Payback period |
|---|---|
| 1 kW | 2.8 years |
| 2 kW | 5.5 years |
| 5 kW | 13.8 years |
| 10 kW | 27.6 years |
Ready to Get a Quote on Your Solar Project?
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Normal
How much money could I save by going solar in Normal?
Is solar energy easily accessible in Normal?
Will a solar PV system boost my Normal home worth?
What if I live in a gloomy or rainy
Is installing solar panels a quick job?
How do I care for my new solar system?
How can I enhance my solar panels' performance?
- optimize the panels' position with your solar installer
- regularly clean your solar panels
- upgrade to a more efficient inverter trim or cut down trees in the way of your panels
- use energy-efficient appliances
To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at reviewsteam@thisoldhousereviews.com.
