Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Fairview Heights, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
StraightUp Solar is a highly respected, locally-owned and operated company serving Illinois and Missouri. They are a certified B Corporation, reflecting a strong commitment to social and environmental performance. They are known for their expert design, installation, and customer education, with deep knowledge of Illinois-specific incentives like the Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program).
As one of the largest dedicated residential solar companies in the U.S., Sunrun offers significant brand recognition and a strong focus on financing and leasing options (like their popular Power Purchase Agreement). They have a network of local installation crews and provide robust monitoring and maintenance services.
Rethink Electric is a premier local electrical and solar contractor based in St. Louis, known for high-end residential work and exceptional customer service. They specialize in integrating solar and battery systems (primarily Tesla Powerwall) with home electrical systems and are praised for their clean, professional installations and expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid solutions.
** The home solar market in Fairview Heights, IL, is part of the active and growing St. Louis metropolitan solar industry. The market is characterized by moderate competition, primarily from established regional and national companies that service the area. The overall quality of providers is high, with several companies holding top-tier certifications from manufacturers like Tesla, SunPower, and Panasonic. **Typical Pricing:** For a standard 6 kW residential system, gross costs typically range from **$18,000 to $25,000** before incentives. The net cost after applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and the state-level **Illinois Shines** rebate can reduce the final price by 40-50%, making solar increasingly affordable for homeowners. **Key Market Drivers:** The primary drivers are the attractive state-level incentives (Illinois Shines), stable net metering policies from utilities like Ameren Illinois, and growing consumer interest in energy independence through battery storage, especially given the region's occasional severe weather. Homeowners are well-advised to seek multiple quotes from both local specialists (like StraightUp Solar and Rethink Electric) and national players (like Sunrun) to compare equipment, financing options, and service models.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Fairview Heights regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Fairview Heights, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Fairview Heights, 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). Illinois also offers additional savings through the Illinois Shines program, which provides renewable energy credits (RECs) that can significantly lower your net cost, making the final investment more affordable.
Solar panels are very effective in Fairview Heights' climate. They generate electricity from sunlight, not heat, so they perform well on cold, clear winter days. While summer heat can slightly reduce panel efficiency, the longer daylight hours in summer lead to the highest overall production. Snow will temporarily cover panels, but it usually melts and slides off quickly due to the panels' dark, slick surface and angled installation.
First, ensure the installer is licensed in Illinois and familiar with Ameren Illinois's specific interconnection requirements for our region. Choose a company with extensive experience installing in Southwestern Illinois, as they will understand local building codes, roof types common to the area, and optimal system designs for our weather patterns. Always check for strong local references and reviews from Fairview Heights or nearby St. Clair County residents.
From contract to activation typically takes 2 to 4 months. The timeline includes system design, securing permits from the City of Fairview Heights, approval from Ameren Illinois, the physical installation (1-3 days), and the final inspection and interconnection. Seasonal factors can influence timing; for instance, high demand in spring can sometimes extend the permitting and utility approval steps.
Yes, Ameren Illinois offers net metering, which is a major benefit. When your system produces more power than your home uses, the excess is sent to the grid, and your meter runs backward, crediting your account. You can use these credits to offset power drawn from the grid at night or on cloudy days. Illinois law requires Ameren to offer net metering, ensuring you get full retail value for the excess energy you produce.