Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Antioch, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer known for its comprehensive "white-glove" service, from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance. They are a full-service provider with strong manufacturer partnerships and a focus on customer education.
As one of the largest dedicated residential solar companies in the U.S., Sunrun offers extensive resources, strong financing power, and a popular solar lease/PPA model. They have a significant local presence through dedicated installation crews and partners in the Illinois market.
A highly-rated local contractor specializing in both solar PV and solar thermal systems. They emphasize quality craftsmanship, personalized system design, and long-term customer relationships, including vital maintenance and repair services.
** The home solar market in Antioch, Illinois, is characterized by moderate competition, primarily from established regional installers and national companies that service the broader Chicagoland and Southeastern Wisconsin area. There are few, if any, installers physically based within Antioch's city limits, so residents typically work with companies from nearby hubs like Gurnee, Pleasant Prairie, or the wider Chicagoland region. The **average quality** of providers is high, with many holding top-tier certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). **Customer satisfaction** is a key differentiator, leading to the high ratings seen among the top contenders. **Typical pricing** for a residential system in Illinois is competitive, with average gross costs ranging from **$15,000 to $30,000** before incentives. The key financial driver in Illinois is the **Illinois Shines** (Adjustable Block Program), which provides significant Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) buybacks, drastically reducing the net cost for homeowners. Combined with the 30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), effective payback periods are among the most attractive in the country. Most top providers excel at navigating these complex state-specific incentives for their clients.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Antioch regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Antioch, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Antioch, the gross cost before incentives is typically between $18,000 and $28,000. Crucially, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Illinois also offers a state-specific incentive through the Illinois Shines program, which provides renewable energy credits (RECs) that can significantly offset your upfront cost, making the net investment much more affordable.
Solar panels are very effective year-round; they generate power from light, not just heat, and cold temperatures can actually improve panel efficiency. Snow typically melts quickly off angled panels, and a light dusting doesn't severely impact production. While December and January see shorter days and more cloud cover, your system is designed to overproduce in sunnier months (like summer) to build credits with ComEd's net metering, offsetting your lower winter production.
Yes, you will need a building permit from the Antioch Community Development Department. Reputable local installers will handle this entire process for you. The Village generally follows the International Residential Code for solar, and key local considerations include rules for roof setbacks and ensuring your system complies with any homeowner association (HOA) covenants, which in Illinois cannot unreasonably restrict solar installations under the Solar Rights Act.
Look for providers with strong local experience, proper Illinois licensing (like a roofing or electrical license), and a physical presence in the region. Check reviews on platforms like Google and the Better Business Bureau, and ask for references from recent installations in Lake County. A trustworthy installer will provide a detailed production estimate specific to Antioch's climate and a clear explanation of ComEd interconnection and net metering.
With a standard grid-tied system (the most common type), your solar panels will automatically shut off during a ComEd outage for safety reasons, so you will not have power. To maintain electricity during an outage, you must pair your solar system with a dedicated battery storage solution, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar. This is an increasingly popular addition for Antioch homeowners concerned about reliability, especially during seasonal storms.