Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Modesto, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sun Solar is a leading regional solar installer headquartered in Springfield, IL, with a strong presence throughout central Illinois. They are known for their comprehensive in-house services, from initial consultation and design to installation and maintenance. They emphasize local expertise and have a strong track record of handling Illinois-specific incentives and utility interconnections.
Based in the St. Louis metro area, Rethink Electric serves a wide area of southwestern Illinois, including Macoupin County. They are a certified installer for premium brands and have a reputation for high-quality electrical work and system design. Their expertise in both grid-tied and battery backup solutions makes them a strong contender for homeowners seeking energy independence.
A certified B Corporation and a Tesla Powerwall installer, StraightUp Solar has a strong reputation for both technical expertise and customer service. They operate out of St. Louis and serve the Illinois market extensively. They are particularly adept at integrating advanced battery storage systems and are well-versed in the financial aspects of solar investment.
The home solar market for Modesto, Illinois, is part of the broader central/southern Illinois region, which is characterized by moderate competition from reputable regional installers rather than a high density of local contractors. The market quality is generally high, as the companies that succeed are those with the resources to cover large rural service areas. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before the 30% federal tax credit. This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$15,000 to $25,000** for an average-sized system. The combination of the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), net metering policies from local utilities (like Ameren Illinois), and the state's Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program makes solar a financially viable option for homeowners in the area. Companies that succeed here are those that can expertly navigate these incentives and provide robust service and support over long distances.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Modesto regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Modesto, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Modesto, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, Illinois offers strong state incentives, including a Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program through the Illinois Shines program, which can provide a significant upfront payment. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, the net cost can be reduced by 40-50%, making solar much more affordable for local homeowners.
Modesto's climate features hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters, which actually balance well for solar. Summer provides long, sunny days for peak production, while modern panels are efficient even on cold, clear winter days. Snow will temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to help shed snow, and their dark surfaces accelerate melting, minimizing long-term impact on your annual energy harvest.
Yes, you will need a building permit from the Macoupin County Building Department. A reputable local installer will handle this entire process for you. For interconnection, you will work with Ameren Illinois, which has a standardized net metering program. This program credits you for excess power sent back to the grid, which is essential for maximizing savings, especially during sunny summer months.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have specific experience with Ameren Illinois's interconnection process. Look for companies with strong local references and physical presence in Illinois, as they will understand regional weather considerations like proper snow and wind loading. Always compare multiple detailed quotes that outline equipment warranties, production estimates, and a clear breakdown of all costs and incentives.
Standard grid-tied solar systems automatically shut off during a grid outage for safety reasons, to prevent sending power back to utility workers. To have power during an outage in Modesto, you need to pair your solar system with a battery storage solution, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar. This is an increasingly popular addition, providing backup power and further increasing your energy independence, especially during severe Midwestern storms.