Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in North Chicago, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly reputable, locally-owned and operated company with over two decades of experience specializing in residential and commercial solar in Northern Illinois. They are known for their personalized customer service, in-house installation teams, and deep expertise in both grid-tied and battery backup systems. They handle the entire process from design and permitting to installation and maintenance.
CertaSun is a leading regional solar provider with a strong presence in the Midwest, including Illinois. They partner with a network of certified local installers, ensuring high-quality workmanship. They are particularly strong in making solar accessible through various financing and leasing options and are experts in navigating Illinois-specific incentives like the Illinois Shines program.
A premier, locally-owned Chicagoland solar installer known for exceptional customer satisfaction and high-quality designs. Windfree Solar focuses on custom residential systems and has extensive experience with complex roof types and battery integration, particularly with Tesla Powerwall. They offer comprehensive services from initial consultation to lifelong maintenance.
** The home solar market in North Chicago, and the broader Chicagoland area, is mature and competitive. The average quality of providers is high, driven by stringent local building codes, the need for systems that can handle winter weather, and the complexity of Illinois' incentive programs. Competition is robust, with a mix of large national players, strong regional companies, and specialized local installers vying for business. This competition benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in this region ranges from **$15,000 to $35,000+** before incentives, heavily dependent on system size (typically 6kW to 12kW for an average home) and the inclusion of battery storage. The federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which currently allows for a 30% tax credit, combined with the Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program) which provides a monetary credit for renewable energy credits (RECs), can significantly reduce the net cost by 40-50%. Reputable providers in this market are distinguished by their expertise in seamlessly navigating these financial incentives for their customers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with North Chicago regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in North Chicago, Illinois.
For a typical North Chicago home, a solar panel system costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Illinois offers strong financial benefits, including a 30% federal tax credit and the state's Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program through the Illinois Shines program, which provides upfront payments. Additionally, ComEd customers benefit from net metering, crediting you for excess power sent back to the grid, which is vital for maximizing savings in our climate.
Solar panels are very effective year-round, as they generate power from light, not just heat. Snow typically melts quickly off angled panels, and the cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency. While production is lower in shorter winter days, the sunny spring and summer months generate significant surplus, and net metering with ComEd banks your credits to offset those lower-production periods, ensuring annual savings.
The process involves three key layers: a City of North Chicago building permit to ensure structural safety, compliance with local zoning codes, and interconnection approval from ComEd. A reputable local installer will manage this entire process for you. It's also important to check if your home is in a historic district, as there may be additional aesthetic guidelines for panel placement.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have strong experience with Illinois-specific programs like Illinois Shines. Look for established local companies with strong reviews on platforms like Google and the Better Business Bureau, as they understand local weather challenges, ComEd's requirements, and the city's permitting process. Always get multiple detailed quotes and confirm they handle all permits and paperwork.
No. Illinois has a property tax assessment freeze for renewable energy installations. Under the state's Solar Rights Act, adding a solar energy system to your home will not increase your property tax assessment for as long as you own the home. This is a significant benefit that protects your investment and enhances your home's value without a corresponding tax increase.