10 Best Solar Companies in Elmwood Park, IL

How To Choose a Solar Company

Putting solar panels on your roof could cut your electricity payments while helping the environment by reducing your carbon footprint through renewable energy use. Key considerations when researching local solar installers are as follows.

Check Licensing

Make sure you hire a licensed solar installer. This helps ensure that the work is done correctly using current best installation practices. In Illinois, the state Commerce Commission licenses distributed generation energy contractors, including solar contractors.

Read Customer Reviews

Check review sites like the Better Business Bureau (BBB), TrustPilot, and Google Reviews to see customer feedback about local solar companies. Detailed reviews can help you assess a company's dependability and level of service. Use caution with companies that have hardly any reviews or mostly negative ones.

Compare Multiple Quotes

Contact at least three solar companies to get free, detailed quotes. Quotes should clearly outline all costs and list the exact solar components included. Comparing multiple quotes helps identify the best value based on your budget.

Ask About the Warranty

Quality solar installations should have strong workmanship and performance guarantees. A workmanship guarantee addresses any installation defects (such as poor wiring, poor alignment, or cracks in the panels), while a performance warranty ensures a certain level of energy production. Strong warranties show that a company is confident in its work.

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Solar energy can help lower your electricity costs in the long run. When considering solar panel's cost and value, be sure to consider these considerations.

• Look into utility rebates: Local power companies may offer additional rebates to encourage homeowners to install solar panels. Check the requirements to qualify and the rebate values with your local power company to find out what your savings could be.
• Research federal and state tax credits: A 26% federal tax credit on total solar system costs is available through 2032. Many states provide incentives, too. The credits can result in substantial savings for solar buyers.
• Compare system purchase options: Solar panels can be purchased upfront or paid for over time through a loan or lease. Review all terms when financing, including fees, payment schedule, annual percentage rate (APR), and ownership implications.

Cost of Solar Installation in Elmwood Park

The cost of home solar panels in Elmwood Park will depend on several factors, including the area and generating capacity of your panel array and the type of panels you'll use. Generally speaking, a typical solar energy system could range from $3,760 per kilowatt, not including labor, permit fees, or preliminary work. Most solar systems in Elmwood Park are 6.4 kilowatts, and the typical Elmwood Park homeowners spends $16,818 after accounting for federal tax refunds. Some homeowners may prefer leasing their solar panels to reduce upfront costs.