Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Highland Park, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A top-tier, locally-owned and operated SunPower Master Dealer. They are known for installing the highest-efficiency solar panels on the market, backed by a comprehensive 25-year product, power, and labor warranty. Their strength lies in a white-glove service approach from consultation through post-installation support.
A leading Illinois-based solar installer focused exclusively on the residential market. Certasun is highly regarded for its transparent pricing, expert knowledge of state and local incentives (like the Illinois Shines program), and a strong focus on customer education. They offer a variety of financing options, including leases, loans, and PPAs.
A well-established local company with deep roots in the North Shore community. While they offer solar installation, they also have a strong reputation for ongoing maintenance, repair, and cleaning services, making them an excellent choice for long-term system care. They provide both grid-tied and off-grid solutions.
** The home solar market in Highland Park, IL, is characterized by a high level of quality and competition among a select group of established providers. The affluent and environmentally conscious demographic of the North Shore has attracted top-tier installers who offer premium products and services. The average quality of installations is very high, with a strong emphasis on high-efficiency panels, aesthetic integration, and battery backup systems due to the area's higher-than-average home values and occasional grid reliability concerns. Competition is robust but not saturated, with a few key players dominating the market. These companies differentiate themselves through manufacturer partnerships (e.g., SunPower), deep local incentive knowledge, and superior customer service rather than on price alone. Typical pricing for a residential system in Highland Park is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$18,000 to $35,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit, depending on system size, panel quality, and complexity. Homeowners have excellent access to financing options, and installers are typically very proficient in navigating the Illinois Shakes (Adjustable Block) program, which provides additional solar renewable energy credits (SRECs) to offset the system cost.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Highland Park regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Highland Park, Illinois.
For a typical Highland Park home, a solar panel system costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Illinois offers strong financial benefits, including a 30% federal tax credit, the state's SREC (Solar Renewable Energy Credit) program which provides ongoing payments for energy produced, and net metering from ComEd. These incentives can reduce your net cost by 40-50% and significantly shorten the payback period.
Highland Park's four distinct seasons impact solar production, with peak output in sunny summer months and lower production in shorter, cloudier winter days. However, solar panels are efficient in cold, clear weather and snow usually melts quickly off angled panels. Modern systems are designed for this climate, and annual production estimates account for seasonal variation, ensuring you generate enough credits through net metering to offset your year-round electricity use.
Installing solar in Highland Park requires a building permit from the City's Community Development Department. Your chosen installer will typically manage this process, ensuring plans comply with local building and electrical codes, as well as any homeowner association (HOA) covenants. Highland Park's zoning is generally solar-friendly, and Illinois law (Solar Rights Act) protects your ability to install solar, limiting HOA restrictions that significantly increase cost or decrease efficiency.
Select a provider with extensive local experience in Northern Illinois. Key factors include proper Illinois licensing (roofing and electrical), strong references from Highland Park or nearby North Shore neighbors, and familiarity with ComEd's interconnection process and Highland Park's permit requirements. Always compare multiple detailed quotes, verify they handle all permits and inspections, and confirm they offer robust workmanship and production warranties.
Standard grid-tied systems automatically shut off during an outage for safety, unless paired with a dedicated battery backup like a Tesla Powerwall. For snow, panels are installed at an angle so snow usually slides off; occasional light clearing may be needed after heavy storms. Highland Park's mix of sun and freezing temperatures often leads to quick melting, and your installer will design the system to minimize snow-related production loss.