Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Lake Forest, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A premier local installer that is an authorized dealer of SunPower, a manufacturer known for the highest-efficiency solar panels on the market. They offer a full suite of services from design to maintenance and are particularly skilled with the high-end, custom installations common in Lake Forest. Their partnership with SunPower provides customers with a comprehensive 25-year warranty covering panels, performance, and labor.
A highly-rated, local Illinois company that has built a strong reputation for quality craftsmanship and customer service in the Chicagoland area. They are a Tesla Powerwall certified installer, making them a top choice for homeowners seeking integrated battery storage solutions. They handle the entire process in-house, including permitting and interconnection with ComEd.
A respected, boutique solar installer focused on the North Shore and Chicago suburbs. They are known for their personalized consultation and design process, taking the time to educate homeowners and design systems that maximize energy production and aesthetic integration. They offer a variety of financing options and are well-versed in local incentives and net metering.
The home solar market in Lake Forest, Illinois, is characterized by high quality and strong competition among premium installers. The affluent and environmentally conscious demographic demands top-tier equipment and flawless installation, often on custom or historic homes. This has led to a market dominated by established companies that offer high-efficiency panels (like SunPower and LG), integrated battery storage (Tesla Powerwall), and comprehensive service packages. Competition is robust, which benefits the consumer through competitive pricing and high service standards. Typical pricing for a residential system ranges from $20,000 to $50,000+ before the 30% federal tax credit, depending on system size, panel quality, and the complexity of the roof. Homeowners in Lake Forest are generally well-informed and value long-term warranties, energy independence, and the property value increase that a high-quality solar installation provides. Knowledge of local ComEd net metering policies and Illinois Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) programs is a standard expectation from any reputable installer in this market.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Lake Forest regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Lake Forest, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Lake Forest, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with Illinois' Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program through the Illinois Shines program, which provides an additional significant upfront incentive. Furthermore, Lake Forest residents benefit from net metering with ComEd, ensuring you get credit for excess energy sent back to the grid.
While solar panels are most productive in sunny, cooler conditions, they generate power year-round in Lake Forest. Summer offers the most peak sun hours, but panels remain efficient in cold weather. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage shedding, and the reflective quality of snow can sometimes boost production after it clears. System sizing accounts for our seasonal variation to meet annual energy needs.
All installations require an electrical permit from the City of Lake Forest's Building & Zoning Division. If your home is in a local historic district or has a designated historic landmark status, you will need additional review and approval from the Historic Preservation Commission. A reputable local installer will manage this entire permitting process, ensuring compliance with all municipal codes and architectural guidelines specific to the community.
Prioritize providers with extensive experience navigating Lake Forest's specific permit and historic review processes. Verify they are licensed, insured, and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Ask for local references and examples of past installations in the area, and ensure they offer robust warranties. Comparing multiple detailed quotes from Illinois-based companies familiar with state incentives is essential.
No, under the Illinois Property Tax Code, a solar energy system is considered an added improvement that does not increase your home's assessed value for property tax purposes. Regarding durability, modern panels are rigorously tested to withstand Lake Forest's severe weather, including hail up to one inch in diameter at high speed. Most systems include a 25-year performance warranty and are covered by standard homeowners insurance policies.