Benefits of Solar Energy
Solar energy provides multiple perks. Let's look at a few of them.
- Better energy independence: Adding a battery storage system lets you have trustworthy energy during storms and grid outages.
- Lowered energy bills: You can dodge the added cost of grid-tied power by generating some electricity at home. Plus, many states offer net metering which can allow you to sell your unused energy back for credits on your bill.
- Reduced carbon footprint: Using solar is a surefire way to decrease your carbon footprint and home fossil fuel dependency.
What Solar Incentives Are Available to Romeoville Homeowners?
Illinois homeowners who choose solar could qualify for reimbursements, tax credits, rebates and special financing. Here are just a few of the local incentive programs.
Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive
Incentive Amount:
Varies
Incentive Type: Rebate Program
Website: comed.comIncentive Amount:
Appliances
Air Purifier: $50
Clothes Washer: $50
Dehumidifier: $50
Electric Clothes Dryer: $50
Freezer: $50
Refrigerator: $50
Room Air Conditioner: $25
Refrigerator/Freezer Recycling: Free pickup and $50, plus an additional $10 if recycling a room A/C at the same time
Heating & Cooling
Air Source Heat Pump: $400 - $600
Central A/C: $300 - $600
Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump: $400
Geothermal Heat Pump: Up to $6,000/home
Furnace Blower Motor (ECM): $50 - $100
Miscellaneous
Advanced Power Strip: $10
Air Sealing: Up to $400/home
Attic Insulation: Up to $300/home
Duct Sealing: Up to $500/home
Lighting: In-store discounts, varies
Pool Pump: $275
Smart Thermostat: $100
Wall Insulation: Up to $400/home
Incentive Type: Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program
Website: icc.illinois.govIncentive Amount:
Negotiated with procurement administrators
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 Romeoville
The cost and performance of solar panels often rely on the solar company that mounted them. Here are some crucial criteria to consider while searching for a solar company.
Licensing and Training
In Illinois, the state Commerce Commission regulates distributed generation energy contractors, including home solar installers. Solar installers can also pursue accreditations from trade groups and standards organizations. The most recognized ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.
Cost of Solar Panels in Romeoville
The kind of solar panels you select decides how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and cost more but give you the best performance. Polycrystalline panels work with a tried-and-true mechanism and cost less, but produce less power. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.
If you'd like to charge an electric vehicle (EV) or use your solar power in inclement weather, you can pay extra for accessories. By choosing the right components, you can make your system more productive and convenient to use. Not all solar companies include these extras, so look for a contractor that installs them if it's important for you.
Most Romeoville homeowners opt for solar systems sized for five kilowatts (kW) of electrical capacity. These systems run about $18,800 to install, considering both materials and labor. You can find more specific solar cost information in the table.
Solar Panel Cost | Average Cost |
---|---|
Solar Monocrystalline | $1,248 |
Solar Polycrystalline | $974 |
Thin-Film | $569 |
Solar Battery | $799 |
Solar Home EV Charger | $2,996 |
Financing Solar Energy in Romeoville
Solar installers offer multiple different financing options to lower your costs and increase your savings. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are power purchase agreements (PPAs), cash payments, solar loans and solar leases. We recommend making a cash payment or using a solar loan for the best 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 reduce 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 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 usually don’t recommend these two choices because you won't own the solar system and are disqualified from using solar incentives. We suggest working with a contractor that offers multiple financing options. Speak with each agent about what's available, and obtain more than one estimate for the best odds of staying within your spending limits.
The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Romeoville.
The IRS allows you to claim a 26% federal solar tax credit on total system costs, so long as you purchase it before 2032. Municipal authorities and utilities might also offer their own incentives, rebates, and financing programs that could save you more money.
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 |
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Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Romeoville
How much energy and money could I save per year by switching to solar?
Is solar energy readily available in Romeoville?
Should I anticipate a boost in my property value after switching to solar energy?
Could I still use solar power if I live in a dark, rainy, or wooded area?
What can I do to predict my home's solar potential?
What is the average payback period for Romeoville solar panels?
How are a solar lease and PPA different?
If you choose a lease, you'll make fixed monthly payments.
With both leases and PPAs, you don't own your panels and lose eligibility for most incentives. Further, you'll have to "buy out" or transfer the contract if you sell your home during the term.
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