Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in New Boston, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Rethink Electric is a leading regional solar and electrical contractor based in the Quad Cities, known for its high-quality residential installations and exceptional customer service. They offer a comprehensive, turnkey solution from initial consultation and system design to installation, maintenance, and financing guidance. Their expertise in both grid-tied and battery backup systems makes them a top choice.
StraightUp Solar is a certified B Corporation and a well-established player in the Illinois and Missouri markets. They are known for their technical expertise, strong manufacturer partnerships (like Panasonic and Enphase), and deep knowledge of state-specific incentives like Illinois Shines. They provide robust design, installation, and long-term support services.
Leveraging the extensive local presence and trusted reputation of the CertaPro Painters brand, CertaSolar offers a streamlined and professional solar installation experience. They focus on making the process simple for homeowners, handling everything from design and permitting to installation and activation, with a strong emphasis on customer communication.
** The home solar market in New Boston, IL, is characteristic of a rural community, with no local installers but well-served by established regional companies. The competition is moderate but high-quality, with several top-tier Illinois-based contractors actively seeking business in the area. These companies bring professional expertise, robust warranties, and extensive knowledge of state and federal incentives, including the Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program) which provides significant monetary credits for generated solar power. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with the national average, generally ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before the 30% federal tax credit. This translates to a gross cost of approximately **$21,000 to $35,000** for an average-sized 7-10 kW system. The high customer satisfaction ratings of the serving companies indicate a market where quality of installation and customer service are prioritized.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with New Boston regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in New Boston, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in New Boston, the gross cost before incentives is typically between $18,000 and $28,000. Crucially, Illinois offers strong incentives, including the state's Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program through the Illinois Shines program, which provides an upfront payment that significantly reduces your net cost. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, the final net investment can be substantially lower.
Solar panels are very effective in Illinois' climate; they generate power from sunlight, not heat, so they perform well in cold, clear winter weather. While snow cover will temporarily halt production, panels are installed at an angle so snow usually slides off, and their dark surfaces accelerate melting. The ample summer sun provides excellent production, and modern systems are designed to handle the full range of local weather conditions.
You will need a building permit from the Village of New Boston, and your installer will typically handle this process. Your system must comply with the National Electric Code and be approved by your local utility, which for most New Boston residents is Ameren Illinois. Ameren has specific requirements for interconnection (connecting your system to the grid) which your qualified installer will manage.
Look for Illinois-licensed, bonded, and insured contractors with specific experience in the Ameren Illinois utility territory. Check for certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners) and read local reviews. Always get multiple detailed quotes and ask for references from past installations in Mercer County or nearby communities to verify their local experience and customer service.
Ameren Illinois offers full retail net metering. Your system sends excess power to the grid, spinning your meter backward and building credits. At night or on cloudy days, you draw power from the grid and use those credits. Your bill will only charge you for the "net" energy used over a billing period. This system ensures you benefit from every kilowatt-hour your panels produce, making your home energy-independent on an annual basis.