Best 5 Solar Companies in Plainfield, IL

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Plainfield

Choosing a company is the first step toward an effective and cost-efficient solar energy system. Make your choice based on the following key factors.

Licensing and Training

In Illinois, the state Commerce Commission licenses distributed generation energy contractors, including solar installers. Check 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 Plainfield

The kind of solar panels you choose dictates how much power you can generate. 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 improve your solar system's performance. Not every solar contractor provides these additional features, so look for a company that sells them if it's important for you.

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

Financing Solar Energy in Plainfield

Choosing the best financing option will influence your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include cash payments, loans, power purchase agreements, and leases. Most solar experts recommend paying cash or using a solar loan. Cash payments demand 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 auto loan, you'll pay a set monthly rate with as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to use your panels for a fixed monthly rate, while PPAs let you pay only for the energy you use, much like an electric bill. Both options disqualify you for solar incentives and don't grant you system ownership. Solar experts generally don't recommend them, but they might be suitable in some cases. Ask each provider you're considering about the payment options it offers. A staff member 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 Plainfield.

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 financing plans and rebates that could reduce your total cost even more.