10 Best Solar Companies in Harvard, IL

How To Choose a Solar Company

Going solar can be a great way to reduce electricity costs and help the environment by reducing your carbon footprint using renewable energy. Here are some key factors to consider when determining whether a solar installer is reliable.

Check Licensing

Hiring a licensed solar installer is critical. This help guarantee that the work is done properly using the most up-to-date installation methods. In Illinois, the state Commerce Commission issues licenses to distributed generation energy contractors, including residential solar contractors.

Read Customer Reviews

Look at review platforms such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB), TrustPilot, and Google Reviews to find out what previous customers are saying about local solar companies. Reviews can give you an idea of a company’s dependability and customer service. Be cautious of companies with no reviews or with predominantly negative feedback.

Compare Multiple Quotes

Call 3–5 solar companies for free, itemized quotes. These quotes should describe all costs and list the solar equipment included. Reviewing multiple quotes helps identify the option that aligns with your budget.

Ask About the Warranty

High-quality solar installations should come with robust workmanship and performance guarantees. The workmanship guarantee covers any installation issues like poor alignment, cracks in the panels, or poor wiring. The output guarantee ensures an energy generation baseline. Strong guarantees reflect a solar provider's confidence in its installations.

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Installing solar panels can help decrease your electric bills over time. When weighing the total price and value of solar panels, be sure to consider these factors.

• Research federal and state tax credits: There’s a 26% federal tax credit available for the full cost of solar systems until 2032. Many states also provide incentives. The credits can result in significant savings for solar buyers.
• Compare system purchase options: Homeowners can pay for solar panels upfront or spread out payments over time with a loan or lease. Be sure to confirm key details like payment schedule, annual percentage rate (APR), fees, and what ownership means when financing solar panels.
• Look into utility rebates: Local electric providers may offer additional rebates to encourage homeowners to adopt solar panels. Check the qualification criteria and rebate values with your local electric company to find out what you could save.

Cost of Solar Installation in Harvard

Solar panel costs vary based on system capacity and the solar technology used. The typical Harvard solar array has a capacity of 6.5 kilowatts. Homeowners in the area can expect to pay approximately $3,760 per kilowatt; the average Harvard homeowners spends roughly $17,168 on a new solar system after accounting for federal tax breaks. (Some homeowners prefer to lease solar panels to reduce their upfront costs.) A personalized quote from a local solar provider will account for factors such as the capacity, size, and panel type of the planned system, and should include costs for labor, preliminary work, and permit fees.