Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Cicero, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A premier, locally-owned SunPower Master Dealer, offering the highest-efficiency solar panels and battery storage on the market. They are known for exceptional customer service, comprehensive in-house services, and deep expertise in Illinois incentives and financing.
A well-established, local Chicago company known for quality craftsmanship and personalized service. They handle the entire process from design to installation and maintenance, with a strong focus on customer education and energy efficiency.
A dedicated solar and electrical contractor serving the Chicago metro area, including Cicero. They specialize in both residential and commercial projects and are praised for their technical expertise, clean installations, and responsive customer support.
** The home solar market in Cicero, Illinois, is **moderately competitive and of high quality**, dominated by established Chicagoland contractors rather than national "door-knocking" companies. The high population density and mix of single-family homes and multi-unit buildings create a strong market for solar. * **Average Quality:** The quality of providers serving Cicero is generally high, with most top-tier contractors holding NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) certifications and partnerships with major equipment manufacturers like SunPower, Qcells, and Enphase. * **Competition Level:** Moderate. While there aren't dozens of companies physically located in Cicero, many top-rated providers from Chicago and nearby suburbs actively compete for projects in the area. This competition benefits homeowners through competitive pricing and strong service guarantees. * **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is in line with the national average, but the financial outlook is favorable due to strong incentives. The average system cost before incentives is typically **$15,000 - $30,000** for a 6kW to 10kW system. However, with the **30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)**, Illinois's SREC (Solar Renewable Energy Credit) program (ILS-TR), and net metering from ComEd, the payback period for homeowners is often between **6-10 years**, making it a sound investment. All companies listed above are fully licensed and insured, and they possess deep knowledge of the specific permitting requirements for Cicero and the incentive landscape for the state of Illinois.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Cicero regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Cicero, Illinois.
For a typical Cicero home, a 6-8 kW solar system can cost between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Illinois offers the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program through the Illinois Shines program, which provides significant upfront rebates. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, these incentives can reduce your net cost by 50% or more, making solar very affordable.
While Cicero experiences all four seasons, solar panels are effective year-round. They produce the most energy during sunny spring and summer days. Winter production is lower due to shorter days and potential snow cover, but panels still generate power on clear, cold days. Importantly, modern panels are efficient in diffuse light, so you'll still see production on cloudy days common in the region.
Yes, you will need a building permit from the Cicero Building Department. Reputable local installers will handle this entire process for you. Cicero does not have unique restrictions that prohibit residential solar, but they will enforce standard building and electrical codes. It's also essential to check with your homeowner's association (if applicable) for any aesthetic guidelines.
Look for Illinois-licensed, bonded, and insured contractors with strong local experience. Check reviews on platforms like Google and the Better Business Bureau, and ask for references from past Cicero installations. A trustworthy installer will be fully transparent about costs, provide a detailed production estimate for your specific roof, and expertly manage the permitting, interconnection with ComEd, and Illinois Shines paperwork.
ComEd offers full retail net metering. Your system's excess energy sent to the grid spins your meter backward, building a credit that offsets your usage at night or in low-production months. Credits roll over monthly and are settled annually. Important note: A standard grid-tied system will shut off during a power outage for safety. To have power during outages, you must install a dedicated solar battery backup system.