Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Madison, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading local solar installer serving Illinois and Missouri, known for its employee-owned structure and strong commitment to the community. They offer comprehensive services from consultation and design to installation and maintenance, with deep expertise in local incentive programs.
A well-established regional company that provides robust solar solutions for homeowners. They are known for their in-house installation teams and focus on both grid-tied and backup power solutions, including generator integrations.
A reputable St. Louis-based installer that serves the entire bi-state region, including Southern Illinois. They emphasize custom design and high-quality components and have strong partnerships with top manufacturers.
** The home solar market in Madison, Illinois, is part of the active and growing Metro-East St. Louis solar industry. The competition is moderate, with several strong regional players vying for business. The quality of providers is generally high, with companies holding necessary licenses and certifications like NABCEP. Homeowners in Madison benefit from Illinois-specific incentives, such as the Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program) which offers solar renewable energy credits (SRECs), and net metering policies from utilities like Ameren Illinois. Typical pricing for a residential system ranges from $15,000 to $30,000 before incentives, heavily dependent on system size and equipment. The presence of experienced local installers ensures that residents have access to knowledgeable guidance on leveraging these state and federal incentives to improve ROI.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Madison regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Madison, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Madison, the average gross cost ranges from $18,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Illinois homeowners benefit from the state's Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program through the Illinois Shines program, which provides a significant upfront incentive. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, the net cost can be reduced by 50% or more, making solar very affordable.
Madison experiences all four seasons, with hot summers and cold, sometimes snowy winters. Solar panels are very effective here, as they operate on light, not heat, and can even perform better in cooler temperatures. While winter production is lower due to shorter days and potential snow cover (which typically slides off angled panels), the sunny summer months generate abundant electricity, resulting in strong annual production that can cover a significant portion of your energy use.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have strong local experience, as they will be familiar with Madison building codes, Ameren Illinois interconnection procedures, and local weather considerations. Check for certifications like NABCEP and read reviews from Illinois customers. Always get multiple detailed quotes and ensure they are a certified vendor under the Illinois Shines program to guarantee you receive your state SREC incentive.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from the City of Madison, approval from your utility (Ameren Illinois) for interconnection, the physical installation (1-3 days), and the final inspection and utility approval to "go live." Working with an experienced local installer helps streamline this process.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a power outage for safety, to prevent sending electricity back to the grid while utility workers make repairs. To have backup power, you must install a solar battery storage system, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar. This is a valuable consideration for Madison homeowners, as it provides energy security during severe Midwestern storms that can cause local outages.