Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Bloomington, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading local provider specializing in comprehensive residential solar and battery storage solutions. They are highly regarded for their custom design process, expert installation teams, and deep knowledge of Illinois-specific incentives like the Illinois Shines program. They focus on a high-touch, consultative approach from initial assessment to post-installation support.
A certified B Corporation and a top-rated regional installer serving Illinois and Missouri. They are known for their strong commitment to quality, community, and employee training. They offer a full suite of services from design and installation to maintenance and repair, with expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid systems.
As one of the largest national residential solar companies, Sunrun has a significant presence in Illinois and utilizes local teams for consultations and installations in the Bloomington area. They are a primary option for homeowners seeking solar leasing or Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), offering low or no-upfront-cost solutions.
** The home solar market in Bloomington, Illinois, is moderately competitive and served by a mix of strong regional installers and national providers. The overall quality is high, with reputable companies holding necessary licenses and certifications (like NABCEP). Competition helps maintain fair pricing, but consumers should still obtain multiple quotes. The market is heavily influenced by the **Illinois Shines** (Adjustable Block) incentive program, which provides substantial buy-down credits on system costs. Top providers are distinguished by their expertise in navigating this state-specific program. Typical pricing for a residential system ranges from **$15,000 to $35,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit and Illinois Shines incentive, with the final out-of-pocket cost often being significantly lower. Financing options, including loans, leases, and PPAs, are widely available, making solar accessible to a broad range of homeowners.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Bloomington regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Bloomington, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Bloomington, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can claim the 30% federal tax credit, and Illinois offers a unique incentive: the Adjustable Block Program, which provides Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) for the energy you produce, generating significant extra income over 15 years. Additionally, Bloomington residents benefit from a state sales tax exemption on solar equipment.
Bloomington's four distinct seasons are excellent for solar. While winter snow can temporarily reduce output, panels are installed at an angle for snow to slide off, and the cold actually improves panel efficiency. The ample summer sun and long daylight hours produce the majority of your annual energy, making the system highly productive overall. Modern panels also perform well in diffuse light, capturing energy on cloudy days common in spring and fall.
In Bloomington, you'll need an electrical permit from the City's Planning & Code Enforcement Department. Your chosen installer will typically handle this process. Importantly, Bloomington follows the National Electrical Code and Illinois state codes, which include specific requirements for rapid shutdown systems for safety. You must also comply with your utility provider's (like Ameren Illinois) interconnection agreement to connect your system to the grid.
Prioritize local Illinois-based installers with strong experience in McLean County, as they understand local permitting, utility rules, and roof designs common to the area. Verify they are licensed, bonded, and insured in Illinois, and check for certifications from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Always get multiple quotes, read local reviews, and ask for references from recent installations in Bloomington or Normal.
With proper system sizing, you can drastically reduce or even eliminate your Ameren Illinois bill, but most homes remain grid-tied. It's important to note that a standard grid-tied system will shut off during a power outage for safety reasons, unless you add a battery storage solution. Adding a battery, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar, provides backup power, which can be particularly valuable during the severe storms and outages that can occur in Central Illinois.