Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Harwood Heights, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A locally owned and operated solar installer specializing in residential and commercial systems. They are highly regarded for their personalized service, in-depth knowledge of Illinois-specific incentives (like the Illinois Shines program), and turnkey solutions from design to installation and maintenance.
As a premier SunPower Master Dealer, this company offers some of the most efficient solar panels on the market. They are known for high-quality installations, strong manufacturer warranties, and a comprehensive service package that includes energy efficiency assessments.
A family-owned business with a stellar reputation for customer service and quality workmanship. They provide a full suite of services, including installation, maintenance, and repair, and are known for their transparent pricing and educational approach with homeowners.
** The home solar market in Harwood Heights is part of the robust and competitive Chicago metropolitan solar industry. The market is characterized by a high level of quality among the top-tier installers, who are well-versed in navigating the specific incentives available in Illinois, primarily the **"Illinois Shines"** adjustable block grant program, which provides significant financial incentives for solar generation. **Competition** is strong, but not oversaturated, with a clear distinction between large national companies (which often use subcontractors) and established regional specialists. The providers listed above represent the latter category, which generally receives higher marks for personalized service and local expertise. **Typical pricing** for a residential system in this region, before incentives, generally ranges from **$15,000 to $30,000+**, heavily dependent on system size (typically 6kW to 10kW for an average home) and the inclusion of battery storage. After applying the 30% federal tax credit and Illinois Shines incentives, the net cost to the homeowner can be substantially reduced, often by 50% or more, making solar a financially viable option for many residents. It is critical for homeowners to obtain multiple quotes and verify the licensing and insurance of any contractor they consider.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Harwood Heights regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Harwood Heights, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Harwood Heights, the gross cost before incentives is typically between $18,000 and $28,000. Crucially, you can reduce this cost by 30% with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Additionally, Illinois offers a strong state incentive through the Adjustable Block Program, which provides Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) that can pay you thousands of dollars over the system's life, and ComEd's net metering policy ensures you get credit for excess power sent back to the grid.
Harwood Heights has a continental climate with cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers. Solar panels are less productive in winter due to shorter days, snow cover, and lower sun angles, but they still generate power. The summer months provide excellent production, and the system's annual output is designed to account for these seasonal swings. Importantly, panels are installed at an angle to help shed snow, and they actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures.
Installing solar in Harwood Heights requires a building permit from the Village's Building Department. Your chosen installer will typically handle this process, which includes submitting plans to ensure the system meets local building and electrical codes. You do not need a specific "solar permit," but the standard permit ensures your roof structure can support the system and that the installation is performed safely and to code.
Choose a provider that is licensed, insured, and has strong experience with Illinois incentives and ComEd interconnection. Look for established local or regional companies with positive reviews from Chicagoland homeowners. It's essential to get multiple detailed quotes, verify they will handle all permits and SREC program paperwork, and ask for local references. Avoid out-of-state companies that may not understand local nuances.
No, under Illinois law, a home solar installation is considered a "green energy improvement" and is exempt from increasing your property tax assessment for the added value. For net metering, ComEd provides a one-for-one credit on your bill for any excess kilowatt-hours your system sends to the grid. These credits roll over month-to-month, helping to offset your usage during less sunny periods like winter, with an annual "true-up" settlement.