Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Barrington, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A top-tier provider combining SunPower's industry-leading panel technology with local installation expertise. They are known for a streamlined process, strong customer service, and high-efficiency systems designed to maximize energy production in the Barrington climate. They are a go-to for homeowners seeking premium, long-lasting solar solutions.
A highly-rated, local Illinois company that has built a stellar reputation for quality craftsmanship and customer care. Certasun specializes in the entire customer journey, from initial consultation and system design to permitting, installation, and maintenance. They are particularly adept at navigating Illinois-specific incentives like the Illinois Shines program.
A Chicagoland-based installer with a long track record of reliability and quality service. Windfree Solar handles all aspects of solar installation in-house and offers robust maintenance and repair services, making them an excellent choice for long-term system care. They provide both grid-tied and battery backup solutions.
** The home solar market in Barrington, Illinois, is characterized by high-quality, competitive service providers catering to a discerning and environmentally conscious homeowner base. The average quality of installers serving the area is very high, with companies typically holding premier certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) and partnering with top-tier equipment manufacturers like SunPower, LG, and Tesla. Competition is strong, which benefits the consumer through competitive pricing and enhanced service offerings. Typical pricing for a residential system in Barrington falls within the national average of **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives, meaning an average 8 kW system could range from $20,000 to $28,000 gross cost. However, the net cost is significantly reduced by the 30% federal tax credit and the Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program) incentive, which can cover a substantial portion of the system cost. Providers in this market are generally well-versed in these financial incentives and offer a variety of financing options, including loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs).
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Barrington regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Barrington, Illinois.
In Barrington, a typical residential solar installation ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and home energy needs. You can significantly reduce this cost with the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and Illinois' Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, which pays you for the clean energy you produce. Additionally, ComEd offers net metering, crediting you for excess power sent back to the grid, further improving your return on investment.
Barrington's four-season climate is excellent for solar, as panels operate efficiently in cold weather and our summer sun provides strong production. While snowfall can temporarily cover panels, their dark, slick surfaces usually shed snow quickly, and any minor seasonal dips are offset by high annual production. Minimal maintenance is required; occasional checks after heavy storms and clearing heavy, wet snow drifts if they persist are generally all that's needed.
Barrington requires a building permit for solar installations, which your qualified installer will typically manage. If your home is part of a Homeowners Association (HOA), you must review its covenants; however, Illinois law (Solar Rights Act) prohibits HOAs from unreasonably restricting solar installations, though they can set reasonable guidelines for placement. It's crucial to choose a provider experienced with navigating Barrington's specific permit process and any local HOA requirements.
Prioritize local Illinois-based installers with extensive experience in the Barrington area, as they understand regional weather patterns, local building codes, and ComEd's interconnection process. Ensure they are licensed, insured, and offer strong warranties on both equipment and workmanship. Always check reviews, ask for Barrington-specific references, and confirm they will handle all permitting, SREC program enrollment, and utility paperwork for you.
Standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety, unless paired with a dedicated battery backup system, which is an increasingly popular add-on in Barrington for resilience. With ComEd's net metering, your system's excess energy spins your meter backward, building credits that offset your usage at night or on cloudy days. You receive a bill credit for any net excess generation at the end of each annual cycle, maximizing your system's financial benefit.