Solar Panel Cost Guide in Chicago, IL (2024 Update)

  • Chicago Solar Installation Cost: $17,005
  • 25-Year Savings: $10,265
  • Payback Period: 18.8 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated February 03, 2024

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Chicago

Find out what the average cost of solar panel installation is in Chicago.

In Chicago, solar panels cost about 4 per watt on average.To cover the typical energy usage of the average home in Chicago, most homeowners require a 6.5-kilowatt system. Using the figure above, a solar installation costs around $17,005, or $24,317 before the federal solar tax credit of 0 is applied.

The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of solar panels. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary quite a bit based on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what installation company you go with.For many homeowners, the upfront investment in solar is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $13,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.

To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Chicago

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-15,849
3 years $-13,537
5 years $-11,224
7 years $-8,912
9 years $-6,600
11 years $-4,287
13 years $-1,975
15 years $337
17 years $2,650
19 years $4,962
21 years $7,274
23 years $9,587
25 years $11,899

Top Solar Installers in Chicago

When switching to solar energy, many homeowners opt to hire a solar company since installing a solar system yourself can be a time-consuming project. Because solar panels are exposed to the elements every day, warranties and repairs from your solar company can help you get the most out of your investment in solar panels by avoiding potential costs down the line.

If you're searching for a solar company in Chicago, we've organized a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

See all of the solar companies in Chicago

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Chicago

For many Chicago homeowners, the decision to install solar panels comes down to cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Chicago, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are various factors that greatly influence the price you’ll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that influences the overall cost of going solar. Because of that, it’s crucial to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use.The type of solar panels and equipment you want is another factor that will significantly influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to come at a higher price. Further, solar equipment is more than just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to think about the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that’s in your budget.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in Chicago provide solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing solar.It’s wise to include the interest you’ll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it’ll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you go with to handle your switch to solar energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies operating throughout Chicago, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Some companies only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and choose a company that offers the products, warranties and services you’re looking for and also is within your budget.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $3.91 $16,424 $4,575 19.6 years
8 kW $3.84 $21,477 $6,521 19.2 years
10 kW $3.76 $26,320 $8,677 18.8 years
12 kW $3.68 $30,952 $11,044 18.4 years
14 kW $3.61 $35,374 $13,622 18.0 years
16 kW $3.53 $39,585 $16,410 17.7 years
18 kW $3.46 $43,586 $19,409 17.3 years
20 kW $3.38 $47,376 $22,618 16.9 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar installer you go with will influence not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are some important things you should take into account, including:

  • Contract: Look through the contract terms thoroughly to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, completion timeline incentives and warranties.
  • Installation Process: Make sure you’re on the same page with the company in regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panels are installed, such as updating your electrical system or roof.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and how much efficiency they need. Even though there are many options for which model of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so make sure you peruse their list of offerings before making your decision.
  • Warranty: A comprehensive, 25-year warranty can help keep your solar panels running for years to come and save you money on part replacement and repairs.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best for Leasing

Sunrun

★★★★★
4.0

  • Expansive service area
  • Many financing options
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Some reported issues with door-to-door sales

EcoWatch's Chicago, IL Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Chicago?

This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $18,800 for a 5-kW system and $37,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want extra solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy usage. On the flip side, you can spend less if you choose a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.

Can you get solar panels for free in Chicago?

A solar panel system isn’t free in Chicago, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that you can take advantage of.

Does Chicago have a net metering program?

Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future electricity bills.

What solar power system size is right for my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and the average daily sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to get between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.

Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.

Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.

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