Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Kempton, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A national company with a strong regional presence, Sunbadger Solar is known for its comprehensive, technology-driven approach. They handle the entire process from initial consultation and system design to installation, financing, and maintenance. They are well-versed in Illinois-specific incentives and offer robust warranty options.
A leading Illinois-based solar and electrical contractor, Rethink Electric specializes in both residential and commercial projects. They are praised for their high-quality craftsmanship, customer service, and expertise in complex installations, including battery backups and energy efficiency upgrades.
A local Illinois company dedicated to renewable energy solutions. They focus on personalized service, taking time to design systems that meet specific household energy needs and budgets. They have strong partnerships with top-tier equipment manufacturers.
The home solar market in Kempton, Illinois, and the surrounding Ford County area is best characterized as an emerging market served by regional specialists. Due to Kempton's very small size and rural nature, there are no purely local solar installers. Homeowners must rely on established companies from larger nearby hubs like Bloomington-Normal, Champaign-Urbana, or the Chicago metro area that extend their service radius. **Competition Level:** Moderate. While the number of companies physically based in the immediate area is low, several highly-competitive regional players actively seek customers in Central Illinois. This provides homeowners with viable options without the intense competition seen in major metropolitan markets. **Average Quality:** High. The companies that operate successfully in this region tend to be well-established, properly licensed and insured, and have strong track records. They are adept at navigating the specific needs of rural and semi-rural properties, including both grid-tied and potential off-grid applications. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with national averages, typically ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average-sized 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$15,000 to $21,000**. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) can reduce this cost by 30%. Knowledge of state and local incentives, which these top providers possess, is crucial for maximizing savings. Financing options like loans and leases are widely available to make systems more accessible.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Kempton regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Kempton, Illinois.
For a typical Kempton home, a 6-8 kW solar panel system can range from $18,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Critically, Illinois offers significant savings through the Illinois Shines program, which provides a purchase rebate, and a 30% federal tax credit. Additionally, Illinois has a 1% property tax assessment freeze for solar installations and net metering, making the long-term financial outlook very positive.
Kempton experiences all four seasons, with sunny summers and cloudy, snowy winters. Your system will produce the most energy from late spring through early fall. While winter production is lower, modern panels are efficient in cold, clear weather, and snow usually melts quickly off angled panels. The key is that Illinois net metering allows you to bank summer surplus credits to offset your higher winter usage.
Yes, you will need a building permit from Ford County. Your chosen reputable installer will typically handle this process. Importantly, Illinois has a Solar Rights Act, which prevents homeowners associations (HOAs) from outright banning solar installations, though they may have reasonable rules about placement. Always check with your local utility, like Ameren Illinois, for their specific interconnection requirements.
Prioritize providers with proven experience in Illinois, specifically with the Illinois Shines program paperwork. Look for local or regional installers familiar with Ford County's permitting process and roof structures common to the area. Always verify they are licensed, insured, and offer strong warranties. Get multiple detailed quotes that include production estimates specific to Kempton's weather patterns.
It is highly recommended to address any needed roof repairs or replacement before installation, as removing and reinstalling panels for roof work later is costly. Regarding hail, solar panels installed in Illinois must meet stringent durability standards (UL 61730) and are tested to withstand hail up to 1 inch in diameter at high speed. Most systems also include a manufacturer's warranty that covers hail damage.