Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Fulton, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer based in the Quad Cities area, known for high-quality residential and commercial installations. They have a strong reputation for expert system design, customer education, and navigating state-specific incentives. They are a Certified B Corporation, reflecting a commitment to social and environmental performance.
A well-established and highly-rated local installer serving Northern Illinois. They focus on providing customized solar solutions and pride themselves on using high-tier equipment. Their team is experienced with both grid-tied and complex off-grid systems for rural properties.
A dedicated solar and wind energy contractor serving Eastern Iowa and Western Illinois. They offer a full suite of services from initial consultation to post-installation maintenance and repair. Their local presence makes them a responsive choice for ongoing system support.
** The home solar market in Fulton, Illinois, is characteristic of a smaller, rural community. There are no dedicated solar installation companies physically headquartered within the city limits. Instead, the market is efficiently served by established regional contractors from nearby economic hubs like the Quad Cities (IA/IL) and Freeport. **Competition Level:** Moderate. While there aren't dozens of local competitors, the regional providers that do serve the area are highly competent and compete for business in Whiteside County. This competition benefits the consumer through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. **Average Quality:** High. The top providers in this region are not national sales-focused conglomerates but rather experienced local businesses with strong community ties and reputations to uphold. They typically use top-tier equipment (e.g., Qcells, REC, Enphase, Tesla) and hold certifications from organizations like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with national averages, but the final cost is highly dependent on system size and complexity. For a typical residential system (6kW - 10kW), gross costs before incentives can range from **$18,000 to $35,000**. However, with the combination of the **30% Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)**, Illinois's net metering policies, and the absence of state sales tax on solar energy systems, the net investment for homeowners is significantly reduced, often by 40-50%. These regional installers are typically very proficient at helping homeowners understand and capitalize on these financial incentives.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Fulton regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Fulton, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Fulton, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Importantly, Illinois offers strong state incentives, including the Illinois Shines program which provides a purchase rebate, and you remain eligible for the 30% federal tax credit. Fulton homeowners should also check with their utility provider, ComEd, for any additional rebates or net metering benefits specific to the area.
Solar panels are highly effective in Fulton's climate. They generate significant power from the ample summer sun, and cold, clear winter days actually improve panel efficiency. While snow can temporarily cover panels, their slick, angled surfaces usually shed snow quickly, and any minor seasonal reduction is factored into your system's annual production estimate by a qualified local installer.
Installing solar in Fulton requires a building permit from the City of Fulton, and your installer will typically handle this process. Your system must comply with the National Electric Code (NEC) and ComEd's specific interconnection requirements for net metering. A reputable local installer will be familiar with all city zoning rules, setback requirements, and the streamlined interconnection process with ComEd.
Prioritize providers with strong local experience in Whiteside County and a proven track record of installations with ComEd. Look for Illinois-licensed electricians, strong warranties (25-year on panels is standard), and ask for references from nearby projects. A trustworthy provider will perform a detailed site assessment of your roof and shading, and provide a clear production estimate specific to Fulton's weather patterns.
Yes, ComEd offers full retail net metering to Fulton residents. This means your system's excess summer production credits your utility bill at the full retail rate, building a bank of credits. You then draw from this credit bank during less sunny periods like winter or cloudy stretches, significantly reducing your annual electricity costs. This system effectively averages out production across seasons.