Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hines, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sunrun is a national leader in residential solar with a strong presence in Illinois. They are known for their comprehensive service, from custom design to installation and ongoing maintenance. A major strength is their variety of flexible financing options, including purchase, loan, and their popular power purchase agreement (PPA) model, which requires little to no money down.
A highly-rated local Chicago-area installer known for exceptional customer service and expertise. Windfree Solar handles the entire process in-house, from design and engineering to installation. They have deep knowledge of Illinois-specific incentives, including the Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block) Program, and focus on high-quality equipment and craftsmanship.
1st Light Energy is a regional installer with an office in nearby Burr Ridge, IL. They have been serving the Illinois market for over a decade and are recognized for their professional project management and strong manufacturer partnerships, such as with SunPower. They offer a wide range of services, including EV charger installation alongside solar and battery storage.
** The home solar market in Hines, Illinois, is part of the vibrant and growing Chicago-area renewable energy sector. The market is characterized by **moderate to high competition** among a mix of well-known national providers (like Sunrun) and established, high-quality local installers (like Windfree Solar and 1st Light Energy). This competition benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. The **average quality** of providers is high, as the Illinois market requires proper state licensing and familiarity with complex local utility (ComEd) interconnection processes and state incentives. **Typical pricing** for a residential system in Hines is competitive with national averages. Before the 30% federal tax credit, a typical 6 kW system can range from **$18,000 to $25,000**, depending on system complexity, equipment quality, and roof characteristics. The strong state incentive program, **Illinois Shines**, provides additional monetary credits that can significantly reduce the net cost for homeowners. Most reputable companies offer free consultations and are adept at explaining these financing options and incentives clearly.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hines regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hines, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Hines, 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 Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) that can translate into significant upfront bill credits or ongoing payments from your installer, improving the overall financial return.
Solar panels generate electricity from light, not heat, and actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. Hines' four distinct seasons are excellent for solar: the bright, long summer days produce peak energy, while clear, cold winter days can be very productive. Snow will temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage snow shedding, and their dark surface helps melt it quickly.
Installation requires a building permit from the Village of Hines and an electrical permit, typically handled by your installer. The most critical step is interconnection approval from ComEd. Your solar provider will manage this entire process, submitting the necessary applications to ensure your system meets all local codes and is properly connected to the grid for net metering, which credits you for excess power sent back.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have strong experience with ComEd's specific interconnection process and Illinois' SREC programs. Look for companies with local knowledge of Hines' permitting requirements and a proven track record of installations in Cook County. Always check reviews, ask for local references, and compare multiple detailed proposals that include equipment quality, warranty coverage, and projected production specific to your roof's orientation.
Illinois state law mandates net metering for ComEd customers, making it an excellent benefit. Your solar system sends excess electricity to the grid, spinning your meter backward and earning you a full retail credit (around 13-15 cents per kWh). You then use these credits at night or on cloudy days. ComEd's annual "true-up" settlement means you only pay for your net energy use over a 12-month period, maximizing your savings from solar generation.