The Best Home Solar in Raleigh, IL

Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Raleigh, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Straight Up Solar

4.8
(150 reviews)
Verified

A leading local and employee-owned solar installer serving Illinois and Missouri. They are highly regarded for their expertise, customer service, and comprehensive approach to solar and battery storage, particularly with Tesla products. They handle the entire process from consultation and design to installation and navigating Illinois incentives.

119 S 1st St, Mascoutah, IL 62258 (This is their IL headquarters; they serve a wide area.)

Specialties & Features

Tesla Powerwall installation
SREC
Illinois incentive expertise
Residential solar
storage systems

Business Information

Years in Business:10 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Rethink Electric

4.9
(80 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated, local southern Illinois company focused on clean energy solutions, including solar, battery backups, and EV charger installations. They emphasize quality craftsmanship, education, and personalized service. Their excellent customer reviews highlight their professionalism and knowledge of local conditions.

216 N Washington St, Marion, IL 62959 (Marion is a major hub ~40 miles from Raleigh)

Specialties & Features

Residential solar installation
Battery backup systems
EV charger installation

Business Information

Years in Business:5 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Sunpower by Blue Raven Solar

4.4
(200 reviews)
Verified

A national provider with a strong local presence through authorized dealers. They offer high-efficiency SunPower brand equipment and various financing options, including their own BluePower Plus+ loan product. They provide a streamlined process for design, permitting, and installation.

They operate with a distributed workforce model but have a strong operational presence in the Midwest, serving the Illinois market.

Specialties & Features

High-efficiency solar panels
Flexible financing options
National network with local installers

Business Information

Years in Business:10 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Home Solar Contractors in Raleigh

The home solar market in and around Raleigh, IL, is representative of the broader Southern Illinois region. It is a **moderately competitive market** dominated by a few high-quality local and regional installers, as opposed to a saturated market with numerous national players. The average quality of service is high, as the companies that succeed in this area tend to be established, reputable, and knowledgeable about specific local factors, such as weather and state-level incentives. The competition level is sufficient to provide homeowners with options without being overwhelming. Typical pricing is competitive with national averages, but the key value proposition in Illinois is the strong state-level incentive structure, primarily the **Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC)** program, which can significantly improve the return on investment. Reputable installers in this area are expected to be experts in navigating these incentives. System costs typically range from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before federal and state incentives, highly dependent on system size and energy needs.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Raleigh regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Solar in Raleigh

Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Raleigh, Illinois.

1What is the average cost of a home solar system in Raleigh, IL, and are there any state incentives to help pay for it?

For a typical 6kW system in Raleigh, the gross cost before incentives is typically between $18,000 and $25,000. Illinois offers significant incentives, including a state solar rebate program (Illinois Shines) that provides a payment per kilowatt-hour generated, which can reduce your net cost by 30-40%. Additionally, you are eligible for the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which further lowers the final price.

2How does Raleigh's climate, with its cold winters and humid summers, affect solar panel performance?

Solar panels generate electricity from sunlight, not heat, so Raleigh's cold, clear winter days can be quite productive. While shorter winter days and potential snow cover reduce seasonal output, panels are efficient in cooler temperatures. The humid summers provide ample sun, and modern panels handle Illinois' temperature swings well, with annual production being strong and predictable when properly sized and angled.

3Do I need a permit from the Village of Raleigh to install solar panels, and does my utility have specific requirements?

Yes, you will need a building permit from the Village of Raleigh, and your installer will typically handle this process. Your utility, likely Ameren Illinois, has specific interconnection requirements you must meet to connect your system to the grid and participate in net metering. A reputable local installer will manage all permitting, inspections, and utility paperwork to ensure compliance.

4What should I look for when choosing a solar provider in the Raleigh area?

Prioritize providers with strong local experience in Illinois, as they understand state incentives, local building codes, and utility rules. Check for proper licensing (Illinois requires an electrical contractor's license), strong warranties, and a portfolio of installations in the region. Get multiple detailed quotes and ask for local references to compare equipment, financing options, and projected energy savings specific to our climate.

5How does net metering work with Ameren Illinois, and what happens during a power outage?

Under Illinois law, Ameren Illinois must offer net metering. This means your system's excess energy sent to the grid spins your meter backward, earning you a credit on your bill to offset energy you draw at night or on cloudy days. It's important to note that a standard grid-tied system will shut off during a power outage for safety reasons unless you invest in an additional battery storage solution to provide backup power.