Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Decatur, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Rethink Electric is a highly-rated, locally-owned and operated electrical and solar contractor. They are known for their personalized service, expertise in both grid-tied and battery backup systems, and deep knowledge of Illinois-specific solar incentives. Their focus on quality installation and customer education makes them a top choice.
StraightUp Solar is a leading regional solar installer serving Illinois and Missouri. They are a Certified B Corporation, reflecting a strong commitment to social and environmental performance. They offer comprehensive services from design and financing to maintenance and are known for their expertise with premium equipment like Tesla Powerwall.
Sunrun is one of the largest dedicated residential solar companies in the nation. They have a significant presence in Illinois and offer strong name recognition, extensive financing options (including popular lease and PPA models), and a robust national service network. Their model is ideal for homeowners seeking a hands-off approach with a major provider.
** The home solar market in Decatur, Illinois, is moderately competitive and growing, driven by favorable state policies like net metering and the Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program) which provides substantial solar renewable energy credit (SREC) incentives. The average quality of providers is high, with a mix of excellent local/regional specialists and large national companies. This gives homeowners a good range of choices from personalized service to large-scale financing options. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Decatur is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit and state incentives. A typical 6 kW system might have a gross cost between $15,000 and $21,000. The combination of federal and state incentives can reduce the net cost by 50% or more, making solar a financially attractive investment for many homeowners in the area.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Decatur regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Decatur, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Decatur, 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). Additionally, Illinois offers a state-specific incentive: the Adjustable Block Program (Illinois Shines), which provides Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) that can translate to an upfront discount or performance-based payments, significantly lowering your net cost.
Solar panels generate electricity from light, not heat, and actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. Decatur's four distinct seasons are advantageous: bright, long summer days produce peak energy, while clear, cold winter days still yield good production. Snow can temporarily cover panels, but it usually melts and slides off quickly due to their dark, slick surface and tilt, minimizing long-term impact on your annual energy harvest.
Prioritize installers who are locally licensed, insured, and have extensive experience with Decatur's specific building codes and Ameren Illinois interconnection process. Look for established companies with strong references from local projects. It's essential to choose an installer who is an approved vendor for the Illinois Shines program to ensure you secure your state SREC incentive.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from the City of Decatur, approval from your utility (Ameren Illinois) for interconnection, the physical installation (1-3 days), and the final inspection and utility permission to operate (PTO). Seasonal weather can slightly affect installation scheduling.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety, to prevent sending electricity back to the grid and endangering utility workers. To have backup power, you need a system specifically designed with battery storage (like a Tesla Powerwall or similar). This is an important consideration for Decatur homeowners concerned about severe weather outages, and it represents an additional investment beyond the base solar panel system.