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10 best solar companies in Downers Grove, 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 Downers Grove. We base our ranking off average customer ratings weighted against the number of reviews. For more information, check out our full methodology.
High-quality solar panel installation in Downers Grove, Illinois requires you to hire a solar installer with the right certification, skills and experience. We've created a list of the highest-rated solar companies in Downers Grove to help you hire the perfect installer.
Prior to picking an installer, ask others for suggestions, evaluate potential companies and get multiple quotes to identify the right company for your requirements. You can choose a local solar company in Downers Grove or use a well-known 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
While putting in solar panels requires a large initial investment, it can lower your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that transitioning to solar energy enables Downers Grove homeowners to save an average of $900 every year.
Many solar companies offer different services. Take the time to look at each company and get quotes from all before booking your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Downers Grove
Look for Downers Grove solar companies that have at least 3.5 out of 5 stars based on customer critiques on Google Reviews and comparable sites. Make sure the company has a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB) when selecting a solar company.
Look at reviews to learn about other homeowners’ experiences with a company, and be on the lookout for mutiple bad reviews.
JD Pro Electric Inc
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Reficiency Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Illinois Solar Express, LLC
Services offered
Highlights
- Informative resources
- Reliable customer support
- Prompt service delivery
Kapital Electric, Inc.
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Unity Solar Group
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
WindSoleil Solar and Wind Energy Services
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Summit Solar
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Solar Power Midwest LLC
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Safeguard Solar LLC
Services offered
Highlights
- Clear pricing policy
Windfree Solar Co
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.
RxSun
Phoenix Exteriors Roofing & Solar
SolarWerks, Solar Panel Installation
Ailey Solar Electric, Inc.
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Downers Grove?
Places with varying amounts of sun, including those with higher levels of rain or cloud coverage like Downers Grove, can still benefit from solar energy. Here are the top reasons for going solar:
- Save on energy bills: Going with solar energy lets you lower your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels replaces electricity that would otherwise be bought from utility providers.
- Reduce environmental impact: Going solar shrinks your carbon footprint by saving fossil fuels that would otherwise be used to power your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), electricity production is one of the main contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: You can fuel electric vehicles using solar power at home. This is the best way to guarantee your electric vehicle is powered by renewable energy.
Facts about Downers Grove
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 Downers Grove?
Based on our survey conducted in October 2023, the average national cost of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The price of solar panel installation depends on several factors, such as where you live, availability of sunlight, roof direction, shading, system size and labor. Expect to pay more if you select extras like batteries, solar trackers or animal guards.
In Downers Grove, solar panel installation costs around $17,196, based on data from NASA, the EIA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
How much can you save by going solar in Downers Grove?
While solar panel installation can be a big initial cost, you are positioned to see major savings on your electricity costs over time.
Money savings in Downers Grove from going solar
In Downers Grove, you can anticipate saving money after going completely to solar. However, it takes time to recover the initial investment, and factors such as rain and tree coverage affect how long it takes to see a return on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average 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), the EIA and NASA, Downers Grove's average payback period for solar is 19 years.
- Annual solar savings in Downers Grove: Downers Grove homeowners can expect to save around $904 per year on average by adopting solar power, according to our analysis of data from the Department of Energy, the EIA and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Over 25 years, you can expect to save $10,126 after switching fully to solar, according to our calculations based on data from NASA and the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
Energy savings in Downers Grove from going solar
Beyond cost savings, switching to solar power also decreases your carbon footprint and minimizes your environmental impact. Provided below are the approximated CO2 emission reductions you can expect from solar energy, as determined by our analysis of data from NASA and the EPA.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Downers Grove?
Downers Grove homeowners can take advantage of various solar incentives. Particular programs are offered statewide to all Illinois residents, while others vary based on city, municipality and utility company.
The following solar incentives are offered to Illinois residents, as listed in 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 Downers Grove solar installer?
Consider these questions before hiring a professional solar panel installation company.
What size system do you need?
The size of your system relies on your household’s energy consumption and the solar panel system's production ratio. Larger households typically use more energy and may require a larger system. If the system isn’t big enough, it may lack enough energy to power your entire home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Specific permits and state or local requirements could affect your solar project. You’ll need to apply for the proper permits through your local building department and book an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not every house gets the same sun exposure. Trees, rain and extreme weather conditions can limit sunlight. If your home lacks enough sunlight, you may need additional panels with increased wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Many solar panel systems offer a battery. Solar batteries hold extra power, which is especially useful when you want to prevent power loss when there's no sunshine. Installing battery storage might affect the installation cost.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
Multiple solar panel varieties are available, each differing in design, efficiency and life expectancy. These factors affect pricing, the rate of panel replacement and the amount of roof space you'll need.
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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