Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Waukegan, Illinois. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading residential solar installer combining the high-efficiency equipment of SunPower with dedicated local service. They are known for a strong customer-centric approach, handling the entire process from design and permitting to installation and maintenance.
A Chicagoland-based solar company known for its custom design process and expertise in both residential and commercial installations. They emphasize education and transparency, helping homeowners understand incentives and system performance.
A highly-rated, local Illinois solar installer committed to quality and customer service. They are a Tesla Powerwall certified installer and focus on providing comprehensive energy solutions, including solar and battery backup.
** The home solar market in Waukegan, Illinois, is robust and competitive, benefiting from Illinois's favorable solar policies and incentives, such as the Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program) which provides substantial renewable energy credits. The market features a mix of large national franchises and strong regional specialists, leading to a high average quality of service and expertise. Competition is healthy, which generally benefits the consumer through competitive pricing and enhanced service offerings. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Waukegan ranges from **$15,000 to $30,000+** before federal and state incentives, heavily dependent on system size (typically 6kW to 10kW for an average home) and the inclusion of battery storage. The final cost after the 30% federal tax credit and state-level incentives can be significantly lower, making solar an increasingly attractive investment for Waukegan 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 Waukegan regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Waukegan, Illinois.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Waukegan, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Crucially, you can significantly reduce this through the 30% federal tax credit and Illinois' unique Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) program, which pays you for the energy your system produces. Additionally, Waukegan residents benefit from the state's net metering policy and a sales tax exemption on solar equipment, making the final net cost much more affordable.
Solar panels are very effective in Waukegan's climate; they generate power from daylight, not just direct sun, and cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency. Snow typically melts quickly off the dark, angled panels, and any light reflected off the snow can even boost production. While output is lower in winter months, the strong spring and summer sun generates abundant power, and net metering with your utility (like ComEd) credits your surplus to offset your usage year-round.
Installing solar in Waukegan requires a building permit from the City of Waukegan's Building & Zoning Division to ensure structural and electrical code compliance. Your chosen installer will typically manage this process. Additionally, your system design must be approved by ComEd for interconnection to the grid under their net metering program. A reputable local installer will be familiar with all these steps and handle the paperwork for you.
Look for installers with strong local experience, proper licensing (Illinois requires an electrical license), and certifications like NABCEP. Ask for references from recent Waukegan installations and verify they understand local permitting, ComEd's requirements, and how to maximize SREC value. Checking reviews on platforms like the Illinois Commerce Commission's list of approved vendors and the Better Business Bureau is also highly recommended.
No, in Illinois, a home solar installation is exempt from property tax increases under the state's solar energy system assessment freeze. Regarding hail, modern solar panels are rigorously tested to withstand severe weather, including hail up to 1 inch in diameter at high speed. They are a durable part of your roof's protection, and any reputable installer will provide a strong warranty covering both product performance and weather-related damage.