Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in New Lenox, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A premier provider combining the high-efficiency equipment of SunPower with strong local installation expertise. They are known for a streamlined process from consultation to installation and offer robust in-house financing options. Their strong manufacturer partnership ensures top-tier panel performance and long-term warranties.
A highly-rated, local Chicagoland company known for exceptional customer service and custom system design. They are a certified installer for leading brands and place a strong emphasis on education, ensuring homeowners understand their system and the financial benefits, including Illinois' SREC (Shining Futures) program.
A regional installer with a strong presence in the Northeast and Midwest, known for its professional approach and use of quality components like Qcells panels. They offer a full suite of services from initial assessment to post-installation monitoring and maintenance, with a focus on maximizing homeowner savings and energy independence.
** The home solar market in New Lenox is **moderately competitive and of high quality**. Homeowners have access to a mix of reputable national franchises and excellent regional specialists. The market is driven by several key factors: * **State Incentives:** Illinois' **Shining Futures** program (also known as the Illinois Solar for All program in some iterations) provides valuable Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) that significantly improve the return on investment for solar installations. Top providers are deeply knowledgeable about these programs and handle the complex application process. * **Utility Landscape:** ComEd is the primary utility, and its net metering policy is generally favorable, allowing homeowners to receive bill credit for excess energy their systems produce. * **Pricing:** The average cost for a residential solar system in Illinois ranges from **$15,000 to $25,000** before the 30% federal tax credit. System size, panel quality, and the inclusion of battery storage are the primary cost drivers. Given the strong state incentives, the effective payback period in New Lenox is often more attractive than in many other states. * **Competition Level:** The competition is healthy, which benefits the consumer. The top providers distinguish themselves through superior customer service, more robust warranty packages, and expertise with local permitting and interconnection agreements. Homeowners are advised to get multiple quotes from established, licensed, and insured contractors.
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 Lenox regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in New Lenox, Illinois.
A typical residential solar system in New Lenox ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and home energy needs. Crucially, Illinois homeowners benefit from the state's Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program through the Adjustable Block Program, which provides an upfront payment, and a 30% federal tax credit. Additionally, New Lenox residents are exempt from increased property taxes due to the added solar system value, per Illinois state law.
Solar panels are highly effective in New Lenox, as they generate electricity from light, not heat, and actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures. While winter snow can temporarily reduce output, panels are installed at an angle to help snow slide off, and the abundant sunny summer days produce significant energy. The system is designed to account for seasonal variation, with net metering crediting you for excess summer production to offset winter usage.
Yes, you will need both. Installation requires a building permit from the Village of New Lenox's Community Development Department to ensure compliance with local codes. You must also submit an interconnection application to ComEd, your local utility, to connect your system to the grid for net metering. A reputable local solar provider will typically manage this entire permitting and approval process for you.
Prioritize installers with strong local experience, proper Illinois licensing (like a roofing or electrical license), and familiarity with New Lenox permitting and ComEd's interconnection process. Ask for references from nearby projects and verify they offer robust warranties. It's also wise to choose a company that handles the entire project, from design and permits to maintenance, ensuring local accountability.
Under Illinois law and ComEd's net metering policy, any excess electricity your system sends to the grid earns you a credit on your bill at the full retail rate. These credits roll over month-to-month, allowing you to build up a "bank" of credits during sunny months like summer to use during lower-production periods like winter. This significantly reduces your annual electricity costs.