10 best solar companies in Wheaton, Illinois
Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
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Homefront Local uses a unique algorithm to score solar companies based on important factors like user reviews and how popular they are in your area.
High-quality solar panel installation in Wheaton, Illinois requires you to hire a solar installer with proper certification, expertise and experience. We've compiled a list of top solar companies in Wheaton to help you find the right installer.
Before selecting an installer, ask others for suggestions, screen the installers you're considering and get quotes from multiple companies to find the one that suits your needs. You can choose a local solar company in Wheaton or opt for an established national brand.
- Extends 25-year system and labor warranties
- Installs electric vehicle chargers
- Offers strong leasing options
- 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 substantial initial investment, it can lower your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) shows that changing to solar energy allows Wheaton homeowners to save an average of $940 annually.
The offerings from different solar technicians aren't all the same. Be sure to compare companies and get quotes before you set up your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Wheaton
Search for Wheaton solar companies with at least 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and comparable customer review platforms. The company should also have a respectable rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Looking at previous customer testimonials can provide insight into other homeowners' experiences dealing with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth noting as a possible red flag.
Kapital Electric, Inc.
Services Offered
Phoenix Exteriors Roofing & Solar
Services Offered
Reficiency Solar
Services Offered
JD Pro Electric Inc
Services Offered
Illinois Solar Express, LLC
Services Offered
Safeguard Solar LLC
Services Offered
Unity Solar Group
Services Offered
Nelnet Renewable Energy
Services Offered
TruHome Pros Solar
Services Offered
Certasun
Services Offered
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Wheaton?
Places with varied sunshine levels, including rainy or cloudy areas like Wheaton, can still use solar power. The primary reasons to switch to solar power are:
- Save on energy bills: Going with solar energy lets you reduce your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels replaces electricity that would otherwise be purchased from utility providers.
- Reduce environmental impact: Going solar lowers your carbon footprint by conserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be used to power your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), electricity production is one of the biggest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: With a solar panel system, you can charge electric vehicles right from your home. Using your own solar power is the best method to guarantee your electric car is powered by clean, renewable energy.
Facts about Wheaton
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 Wheaton?
Our survey from October 2023 found that the national median price of solar panel installation is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels hinges on factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof alignment, shading, system size and labor. The price goes up if you choose any extras like solar trackers, animal guards or batteries.
According to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NASA and the EIA, installing solar panels in Wheaton generally runs about $17,196.
How much can you save by going solar in Wheaton?
Solar panel installation is a substantial initial investment, but you can expect to see major savings reflected in your energy bills with time.
Money savings in Wheaton from going solar
In Wheaton, you can anticipate saving money after switching fully 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 is the time it takes for a solar energy system to recover its initial cost. The payback period in Wheaton is around 18 years, according to our calculations, which are based on data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA.
- Annual solar savings in Wheaton: On average, Wheaton homeowners can save $943 per year utilizing solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from NASA, the Department of Energy and the EIA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from NASA and the EIA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can expect to save approximately $11,083 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Wheaton from going solar
In addition to monetary savings, moving to solar energy reduces your carbon footprint and environmental impact. We've calculated the approximated CO2 emission reductions you can realize by going solar based on data from NASA and the EPA.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 86 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 2150 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Wheaton?
There are several solar incentives open to homeowners in Wheaton. Certain programs are applicable to all Illinois residents, while others are dependent on your municipality, city and utility company.
Per the DSIRE, these are the solar incentives offered to Illinois residents:
| 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 Wheaton solar installer?
Before choosing a solar panel installation expert, evaluate these important questions.
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. Larger houses tend to use more power and will potentially need larger solar installations. An undersized system risks inadequate energy generation to fully power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar plans may be impacted by certain regulatory requirements and state or local rules. You must get proper permits through your local building department and arrange for an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get the same amounts of sunlight. The tree density, rain levels and harsh weather can impact sunlight amounts. If your home doesn't get sufficient sun, it may require extra panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
Numerous solar panel systems offer a battery. Solar batteries hold extra power, which is incredibly helpful when you want to avoid power loss when there's no sunshine. Installing battery storage may increase the cost of installation.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You have choices among solar panel types, as they vary in life expectancy, design and efficiency. These elements can change the cost, when you'll need to swap panels and space used 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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