Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Chicago Heights, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading national provider with a strong local presence, known for high-efficiency, proprietary solar equipment and comprehensive service. They offer in-house financing and are experts in navigating Illinois and federal incentives. Their strength lies in a full-service approach from design and consultation to installation and maintenance.
A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated company based in the Chicago area. They have built an exceptional reputation for customer service, quality workmanship, and deep knowledge of the local climate and utility requirements. They focus on custom-designed grid-tied systems and are certified installers for top-tier equipment.
A regional solar installer focused on the Midwest, with a strong commitment to quality and customer education. They offer a streamlined process from initial consultation to activation and provide a variety of financing options, including loans, leases, and PPAs. They are known for their clear communication and professional project management.
** The home solar market in Chicago Heights is active and competitive, characterized by a mix of large national companies and reputable regional installers. The overall quality of providers is high, as the Illinois market requires proper licensing and adherence to building codes. Competition is robust, which is beneficial for consumers as it leads to competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in the area ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average-sized 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$20,000 to $28,000**. However, the net cost is significantly reduced by the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and additional state-level incentives like Illinois Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs), which can reduce the payback period to 7-10 years for many homeowners. Most installations are grid-tied systems, and there is a growing interest in adding battery storage for backup power.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Chicago Heights regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Chicago Heights, Illinois.
For a typical 6kW system in Chicago Heights, the gross cost before incentives is usually between $18,000 and $25,000. Crucially, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Illinois also offers additional savings through the Illinois Shines program, which provides bill credits for the renewable energy you produce, and there are no local property tax increases for the added home value from solar.
Chicago Heights experiences all four seasons, which impacts solar production. While output is highest in sunny summer months, modern panels are efficient and still generate significant power on cloudy days and in winter. Snow will temporarily cover panels, but it usually melts and slides off quickly due to the panels' dark, slick surface and angled installation, minimizing long-term production loss.
Installation requires a building permit from the City of Chicago Heights Building Department. Your chosen installer will typically handle this process. Additionally, ComEd, our local utility, requires an interconnection agreement to connect your system to the grid for net metering, which credits you for excess power sent back. A licensed Illinois electrician must perform the final electrical work.
Prioritize providers with strong local experience in Chicago Heights and the surrounding suburbs. They should be familiar with ComEd's specific interconnection process and local building codes. Ensure they are licensed, insured, and offer strong warranties. Always check reviews and ask for references from recent installations in your area to gauge their reliability and customer service.
Yes, ComEd offers full retail net metering to homeowners in Chicago Heights. This means any excess solar energy your system sends to the grid earns you a credit on your electric bill at the same rate you pay for power. These credits roll over month-to-month, helping to offset your usage during less sunny periods like winter, making your system economical year-round.