Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Schiller Park, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly-rated local contractor specializing in residential solar and roofing. They are known for personalized service, in-house installation teams, and deep knowledge of Illinois-specific incentives like the Illinois Shines program. Their strength lies in a full-service approach from consultation to maintenance.
A well-established regional installer with a strong focus on custom solar energy system design for both grid-tied and off-grid solutions. They have strong manufacturer partnerships (e.g., with Panasonic or Qcells) and offer robust warranties. They are praised for their technical expertise and post-installation support.
A dedicated solar installer that operates in multiple states, including a strong presence in Illinois. They offer comprehensive services from initial energy assessment to financing and maintenance. They are particularly adept at explaining the financial aspects, including PPAs, loans, and leasing, making solar accessible.
The home solar market in Schiller Park is active and competitive, characterized by a mix of national corporations and strong regional installers. The average quality is high, as Illinois' certification and licensing requirements (like being a licensed Illinois Electrical Contractor) create a barrier to entry for unqualified operators. The competition is robust, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and more comprehensive service offerings. Typical pricing for a residential system in the area ranges from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average 6 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of $15,000 to $21,000. However, the effective cost is significantly lower after applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and the state's net metering policies. ComEd, the local utility, offers net metering, allowing homeowners to receive credit for excess energy sent back to the grid. Knowledge of the "Illinois Shines" adjustable block program, which provides additional monetary credits for renewable energy generation, is a key differentiator for top-tier local installers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Schiller Park regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Schiller Park, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Schiller Park, the gross cost before incentives is usually between $18,000 and $28,000. Crucially, you can reduce this by 30% with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Additionally, Illinois offers a strong state incentive through the Adjustable Block Program, which provides Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) that can pay you thousands of dollars over the system's life, and ComEd's net metering policy ensures you get credit for excess power sent back to the grid.
Schiller Park's four-season climate means production peaks in sunny summer months and decreases in shorter, cloudier winter days. However, solar panels are efficient in cold weather and can even produce energy from reflected light off snow. The key is that Illinois receives ample annual sunlight for solar to be highly effective, with your system generating the most power during the high-demand summer months when air conditioning use spikes.
Yes, you will need a building permit from the Schiller Park Building Department. Reputable local installers will typically handle this entire process for you. Requirements generally involve submitting system plans and electrical diagrams to ensure compliance with the Illinois State Plumbing Code and the National Electrical Code (NEC). The process is standardized, and a good installer will navigate it efficiently.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and have strong experience with ComEd's interconnection process and Illinois' SREC program. Look for companies with numerous local installations, as they will be familiar with Schiller Park's specific permitting and common roof types (like asphalt shingle). Always check reviews, ask for local references, and compare multiple detailed quotes that include equipment, warranty, and production guarantees.
Net metering is a major benefit in Illinois. When your solar panels produce more electricity than your home uses, the excess is sent to ComEd's grid, and your meter runs backward, building a credit. At night or during low-production periods, you draw power from the grid and use those credits. ComEd tracks this over a 12-month period, and while they won't send a check for minor annual excess, the policy ensures you get full retail value for the power you generate, maximizing your savings.