Best 3 Solar Companies in Rock Island, IL

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Rock Island

The more informed your provider search is, the better your solar installation will ultimately work. Consider all of these criteria in your business search.

Licensing and Training

In Illinois, the state Commerce Commission regulates distributed generation energy contractors, including home solar installers. Solar companies can also pursue accreditations from trade groups and standards organizations. The most prestigious 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 Rock Island

Your solar panels' style will influence how much energy you can generate. Monocrystalline panels are among the highest quality and cost the most but perform the best. 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 system add-ons, such as electric vehicle (EV) chargers and battery storage, will add to your overall installation costs. However, they might make your solar system more efficient and convenient to use. Not every solar contractor includes these add-ons, so look for a company that sells them if it's a priority for you.

Most Rock Island homeowners choose solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run 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 Rock Island

Choosing the ideal financing solution will influence your overall solar system cost and possible savings. Common payment options include leases, cash payments, power purchase agreements, and loans. 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. Much like a home or auto 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) permits you to pay a monthly rate based only on the energy you use, like an electric bill. We typically don’t recommend these two options because you won't own the system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. Look for providers that offer multiple payment plans to find the right fit for your wallet.

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

You are eligible for a 26% federal solar tax credit for new solar energy equipment until the year 2032. Municipal and state governments and utility companies might also offer discounts, rebates, and dedicated financing plans that could save you more.