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10 best solar companies in Aurora, Illinois
Josephine NesbitHome improvement writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Jun 22, 2024
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We've ranked the top 10 solar companies that operate within 50 miles of Aurora. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
Top-quality solar panel installation in Aurora, Illinois, requires you to hire a solar installer that is certified, trained and experienced. To assist your search for the best installer, we've assembled a list of the highest-ranking solar companies in Aurora.
Prior to hiring an installer, get referrals, review potential installers and get multiple quotes to determine the best company for you. You can choose a local Aurora solar company or choose an established national brand.
- Extends a 25-year system warranty
- Includes upkeep services for leases
- Provides additional insurance coverage
- Extends 25-year manufacturer’s warranty
- Provides solar panel and battery installation
- Offers comprehensive financing
Even though solar panels are a significant upfront investment, you can reduce your energy bills over the long run. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), changing to solar energy enables Aurora homeowners to save $960 on average each year.
Not every solar company boats the same offerings. Ahead of arranging your solar panel installation, look at different companies' offerings and get multiple quotes.
Find the top solar company for you in Aurora
When evaluating Aurora solar companies, find those with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on sites like Google Reviews and similar platforms, in addition to a good reputation on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
You should read through past customer reviews to gain insight into other homeowners' experiences with the company. Keep an eye out for frequent negative feedback as a potential red flag.
Safeguard Solar LLC
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Reficiency Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Summit Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Kapital Electric, Inc.
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Phoenix Exteriors Roofing & Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Illinois Solar Express, LLC
Services offered
Highlights
- Reliable customer support
- Prompt service delivery
- Informative resources
JD Pro Electric Inc
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Solar Power Midwest LLC
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Nelnet Renewable Energy
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Independence Renewable Energy, LLC
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
More providers
Below are additional solar installation companies that didn’t make our top picks based on their distance, ratings or service offerings.
Unity Solar Group
Certasun
ilumen Solar
WindSoleil Solar and Wind Energy Services
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Aurora?
Places with varying amounts of sun, including those with increased rain or cloud coverage like Aurora, can still utilize solar energy. Here are the biggest reasons for considering solar energy:
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can charge electric vehicles using solar power at home. This is the best way to guarantee your electric vehicle is powered by renewable energy.
- Reduce environmental impact: Using solar panels reduces your carbon footprint by conserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be consumed to supply your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), power generation ranks among the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Save on energy bills: Switching to solar can help lower your electricity expenses. Solar panel systems use power to substitute for the electricity you would have otherwise bought from the utility company.
Facts about Aurora
Monthly Energy Spending Per Capita
Clear Sky Days Per Year
Annual Solar Savings Per kW
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Aurora?
Based on a survey we administered in October 2023, the median cost of upgrading to solar panels across the country is $11,743.
The cost of installing solar panels varies based on several elements, including your location, sunlight exposure, roof orientation, shading, system dimensions and labor. Be ready to pay extra if you choose any extras like animal guards, solar trackers or batteries.
As per numbers from NASA, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the EIA, solar panel installation in Aurora has a typical cost of $17,109.
How much can you save by going solar in Aurora?
Putting in solar panels means sizable spending upfront, but you can recoup those costs through major reductions in your energy bills down the line.
Money savings in Aurora from going solar
Homeowners in Aurora who transition fully to solar energy can anticipate saving money. However, it takes time to recoup the initial investment, and things such as rainfall and tree coverage affect the time it takes to see returns on your investment in solar panels.
- Payback period: The typical payback period refers to how long it takes a solar panel system to recover its initial investment through energy savings. According to our analysis using data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), NASA and the EIA, Aurora's average payback period for solar is 17 years.
- Annual solar savings in Aurora: Based on calculations that leverage data from the Department of Energy, NASA and the EIA, Aurora homeowners save around $958 annually with solar energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Over 25 years, you can expect to save $11,530 after switching fully to solar, according to our calculations based on data from NASA and the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Energy savings in Aurora from going solar
Not only does transitioning to solar save you money, but it also shrinks your carbon footprint and its impact on the environment. Below are estimated CO2 emission reductions you can expect from going solar, according to our calculations based on data from NASA and the EPA.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Aurora?
Several solar incentives are available to Aurora homeowners. Some programs are open to all Illinois residents, while others differ by utility company, city and municipality.
Here are solar incentives accessible for Illinois residents, according to DSIRE.
| Name / Incentive Type | Incentive Amount/Details |
|---|---|
Property Tax Incentive Special Assessment for Solar Energy Systems | Varies |
Rebate Program ComEd - Energy Efficiency Program for Residential | Appliances Air Purifier: $50 Clothes Washer: $50 Dehumidifier: $50 Electric Clothes Dryer: $50 Freezer: $50 Refrigerator: $50 Room Air Conditioner: $25 Refrigerator/Freezer Recycling: Free pickup and $50, plus an additional $10 if recycling a room A/C at the same time Heating & Cooling Air Source Heat Pump: $400 - $600 Central A/C: $300 - $600 Ductless Mini-Split Heat Pump: $400 Geothermal Heat Pump: Up to $6,000/home Furnace Blower Motor (ECM): $50 - $100 Miscellaneous Advanced Power Strip: $10 Air Sealing: Up to $400/home Attic Insulation: Up to $300/home Duct Sealing: Up to $500/home Lighting: In-store discounts, varies Pool Pump: $275 Smart Thermostat: $100 Wall Insulation: Up to $400/home |
Solar Renewable Energy Credit Program Solar Renewable Energy Credits | Negotiated with procurement administrators |
Personal Tax Credit Federal Residential Renewable Energy Tax Credit | 30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a Aurora solar installer?
When selecting a professional solar panel installation company, first review these key considerations.
What size system do you need?
Your household's energy use and the solar system's production ratio dictate the appropriate panel system size for you. More expansive homes tend to use more power and will potentially need bigger solar panel systems. An undersized system could lead to inadequate energy generation to completely power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar plans may be impacted by specific permits and state or local laws. You must acquire proper permits through your local building department and coordinate an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get the same levels of sunlight. The tree density, rainfall levels and harsh weather can impact sunlight amounts. If your home doesn't get sufficient sun, it may require more panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Many solar panel systems come with a solar battery. Solar batteries preserve extra energy, which can be helpful for ensuring continuous power during a lack of sunlight. Opting for battery storage could raise the total cost.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
There are multiple solar panel types available, with differences in design, efficiency and life expectancy. These aspects impact not just the cost, but also panel replacement frequency and the space needed on your roof.
Our methodology for selecting solar companies
The Homefront Local team employs a proprietary scoring algorithm that evaluates companies based on key factors you value, such as average customer review ratings and trustworthiness indicators. Our method for determining trust involves a comparative analysis of the number of reviews a company receives compared to its local competitors. This leads to companies that have earned more trust from your local community being awarded a higher score.
We review national and large regional solar providers against our full methodology. We score solar companies on reputation and customer reviews, service options, payment, financing and warranties.
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