Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Plano, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sunrun is a national leader in residential solar and battery storage. They are known for their strong manufacturer partnerships, comprehensive service offerings, and flexible financing options, including their popular Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) which allows homeowners to go solar with little to no upfront cost. They have a significant presence in the Illinois market.
Brightleaf Solar is a highly-rated, Illinois-based company that focuses exclusively on the residential market. They are praised for their personalized customer service, expert system design, and deep knowledge of state and local incentives, including the Illinois Shines program. They handle the entire process from consultation to permitting and installation.
Formerly known as CertaSolar and now operating under the ADT Solar brand, this provider has a strong regional footprint in the Midwest. They offer a full suite of solar services and are known for their robust warranty packages and professional installations. Their backing by ADT provides customers with a sense of financial stability and brand trust.
** The home solar market in Plano, Illinois, is a developing and competitive field, largely driven by state-level incentives like the **Illinois Shines** (Adjustable Block Program) which provides significant monetary credits for generated solar power. This has attracted several high-quality, regional, and national installers to service the area. While there may not be many installers physically headquartered within Plano's city limits, residents have access to a robust selection of reputable companies from nearby hubs like Naperville, Aurora, and Chicagoland. The average quality of providers is high, as the state's licensing requirements and complex incentive application process filter out less professional operations. Competition is strong, which benefits the consumer through competitive pricing and enhanced service offerings. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Plano ranges from **$15,000 to $35,000+** before the 30% federal tax credit and state incentives, with the final cost heavily dependent on system size, panel quality, and roof complexity. Financing options are widely available, including loans, leases, and PPAs, making solar accessible for a wide range of homeowners.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Plano regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Plano, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Plano, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal solar tax credit. Illinois also offers strong state incentives, including a 1:1 net metering policy and the Illinois Shines program, which provides additional renewable energy credits (RECs) that can significantly lower your net cost. Local utility ComEd also has a straightforward interconnection process for solar customers.
Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight, not heat, so they perform very well in Plano's clear summer months. While winter production is lower due to shorter days and potential snow cover, modern panels are efficient at converting available light, and cold temperatures can actually improve their electrical output efficiency. Annual production is strong, with systems designed to offset a substantial portion of your yearly usage, and light snow often melts quickly off the angled panels.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have strong local experience in Kendall County and with ComEd's interconnection process. Look for companies with strong warranties (both product and workmanship) and ask for references from recent installations in Plano or nearby towns. It's essential to choose a provider familiar with local building codes, potential homeowner association (HOA) guidelines, and the specific paperwork for Illinois Shines incentives.
From contract to activation, the process typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from the City of Plano and Kendall County, ordering equipment, the physical installation (1-3 days), and finally, the inspection and approval ("interconnection") from ComEd. Seasonal weather can affect installation scheduling, but the administrative steps are generally efficient.
Yes, modern solar panels are rigorously tested to withstand Plano's weather, including hail up to one inch in diameter at high speed. Installers in this region use mounting systems engineered for high wind loads. Furthermore, your homeowner's insurance typically covers solar panels as part of your dwelling, but you should confirm this with your provider. Choosing a reputable installer ensures your system is built to last for decades in our local climate.