The Best Home Solar in Jacksonville, IL

Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Jacksonville, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Rethink Electric

4.9
(150 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated solar and electrical contractor based in Springfield, IL. They are known for exceptional customer service, expert system design, and a comprehensive approach to energy solutions, including EV charger installation. Their proximity to Jacksonville makes them a premier local choice.

2925 S. Veterans Pkwy, Suite E, Springfield, IL 62704

Specialties & Features

Residential solar panel installation
Battery storage system installation
Energy efficiency assessments

Business Information

Years in Business:8 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

StraightUp Solar

4.8
(250 reviews)
Verified

A leading regional solar installer with a strong presence in Illinois and Missouri. They are a certified B Corporation and have extensive experience with the Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block) incentive program. They offer robust financing options and are known for their professional installations and long-term service support.

2950 Market St., St. Louis, MO 63103 (Serves Central IL, including Jacksonville)

Specialties & Features

Solar financing and leasing options
Grid-tied and off-grid solutions
Professional system design and consultation

Business Information

Years in Business:12 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Sun Badger Solar

4.7
(200 reviews)
Verified

A national solar provider with a significant operational footprint in the Midwest, including Illinois. They have a reputation for efficient project management and a strong warranty package. They handle everything in-house from design to installation and maintenance, providing a seamless customer experience.

(Corporate) 200 S. Executive Dr., Suite 101, Brookfield, WI 53005 (Serves Illinois)

Specialties & Features

Solar panel maintenance and repair
Manufacturer partnerships and warranties
Residential and commercial solar installation

Business Information

Years in Business:10 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Home Solar Contractors in Jacksonville

** The home solar market in Jacksonville, Illinois, is characteristic of a smaller Midwestern city. While there are few, if any, solar installers physically based within the Jacksonville city limits, the market is actively served by reputable regional companies from Springfield, St. Louis, and broader Illinois. The competition level is moderate but specialized, with a handful of established players dominating the service area. The average quality of service is high, as these regional providers must maintain strong reputations and certifications (like NABCEP) to compete effectively. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in the Jacksonville area is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. This translates to a gross cost of **$15,000 to $30,000** for an average-sized system (6-10 kW). The favorable net metering policies from Jacksonville's utility provider (likely Jacksonville Energy or Ameren Illinois, depending on location), combined with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and the state's Illinois Shines rebate program, can significantly reduce the net cost for homeowners, making solar a financially attractive investment.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Jacksonville regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Solar in Jacksonville

Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Jacksonville, Illinois.

1How much does a home solar system typically cost in Jacksonville, IL, and are there any local incentives?

For a typical 6-8 kW system in Jacksonville, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can claim the 30% federal solar tax credit, and Illinois offers a unique state incentive: the Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program through the Illinois Shines program, which provides an upfront payment that significantly reduces your net cost. Additionally, Jacksonville Utilities offers net metering, crediting you for excess power sent back to the grid.

2How does Jacksonville's climate and seasonal weather affect solar panel production?

Jacksonville experiences all four seasons, with sunny summers and colder, cloudier winters. Solar panels are efficient in cold, clear weather and will produce energy year-round, but output peaks in spring and summer due to longer, sunnier days. Snowfall can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to help shed snow, and their dark surface accelerates melting, minimizing long-term impact on your annual energy production.

3What local permits and regulations do I need to be aware of for installing solar in Jacksonville?

Installing solar in Jacksonville requires a building permit from the City of Jacksonville's Building & Zoning Department to ensure structural and electrical code compliance. Your installer will typically handle this process. You must also coordinate with Jacksonville Utilities for interconnection approval to connect your system to the grid under their net metering policy. There are no restrictive homeowners association (HOA) laws in Illinois that can prohibit solar installations.

4How do I choose a reputable solar provider serving the Jacksonville area?

Prioritize Illinois-licensed, insured, and NABCEP-certified installers with proven experience in Morgan County. Ask for local references and physical addresses, and verify they are an approved vendor under the Illinois Shines program to secure your SREC incentive. Be wary of out-of-town companies offering deals that seem too good to be true, and always compare multiple detailed quotes that include equipment specs, warranty terms, and production estimates.

5Will solar panels work during a power outage, and how do they handle severe Illinois weather like hail?

Standard grid-tied systems shut off during an outage for safety, unless paired with a dedicated battery backup. For hail resistance, panels installed in Jacksonville must meet stringent UL testing standards, which include withstanding 1-inch hail at 50+ mph; most quality panels carry a Class 4 impact rating, the highest for hail. Your installer should ensure the mounting system is rated for local wind loads as well.