Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Aurora, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
As a franchise of a leading national solar provider, this company offers high-efficiency SunPower brand equipment, known for some of the best performance and durability in the industry. They provide a full suite of services from consultation and design to installation and maintenance, with a strong focus on making solar accessible through various financing options.
Tesla is a globally recognized leader in integrated renewable energy solutions. They are best known for their sleek Solar Roof tiles and high-capacity Powerwall battery storage systems. Tesla offers a streamlined, technology-driven process from online design to professional installation, appealing to homeowners seeking a comprehensive smart energy ecosystem.
A well-established, local Illinois contractor with a strong reputation for personalized service and expertise in both residential and commercial solar projects. They handle the entire process in-house, including structural engineering and permitting, and have extensive experience with the specific incentives and utility requirements in Northern Illinois.
** The home solar market in Aurora, Illinois, is **moderately competitive and of high quality**, characterized by a mix of large national operators and skilled local/regional installers. Aurora's proximity to Chicago means residents have access to a wide pool of experienced contractors. * **Average Quality & Competition:** The market is not oversaturated, but the companies that operate here are typically well-established and highly certified (e.g., NABCEP). This leads to a higher average quality of installation and customer service compared to less mature markets. * **Typical Pricing:** The gross cost for a typical residential system (6kW - 10kW) in Illinois ranges from **$18,000 to $35,000** before incentives. However, the net cost is significantly lower due to two key factors: 1. The **30% Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)**. 2. The **Illinois Shines** (Adjustable Block) program, which provides substantial Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) buyback payments, effectively acting as a state-level rebate that can reduce the system's upfront cost by thousands of dollars. * **Key Consideration:** Knowledge of the Illinois Shines program and ComEd's interconnection process is a critical differentiator for top-tier installers in this market. The best providers expertly guide homeowners through these incentive applications.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Aurora regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Aurora, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Aurora, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Illinois also offers a unique state incentive: the Illinois Shines program, which provides renewable energy credits (RECs) that can translate to an upfront payment or ongoing bill credits, significantly improving payback time.
Aurora experiences all four seasons, with sunny summers and colder, cloudier winters. Solar production will be highest from May to August. While winter production is lower due to shorter days and potential snow cover, modern panels are efficient in cold weather and can still generate power. Importantly, Illinois has strong net metering rules, allowing you to bank summer credits to offset winter usage.
Installing solar in Aurora requires a permit from the City of Aurora's Building and Permits Division. Your chosen installer will typically manage this process, which includes submitting plans for structural and electrical review. Additionally, they will coordinate with ComEd for interconnection approval to connect your system to the grid, a mandatory step for net metering.
Prioritize local Illinois-based installers with extensive experience navigating Aurora's specific permit process and ComEd's interconnection requirements. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Always get multiple detailed quotes and check reviews from other Aurora homeowners to assess their local reputation and service.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during an outage for safety, to prevent sending power back to the grid while utility workers make repairs. To have power during an outage, you need a system with battery storage (like a Tesla Powerwall). This is a valuable consideration for Aurora homeowners concerned about severe weather-related outages and can be included in your initial installation.