10 best solar companies in Thornton, 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 Thornton, Illinois, requires choosing a solar installer that is properly certified, qualified and experienced. To help you find the perfect team, we’ve put together a list of the leading solar panel companies in Thornton.
Before selecting an installer, ask others for recommendations, screen potential installers and get multiple quotes to find the ideal company for your needs. You can choose a local solar company in Thornton or use 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
Even though solar panels are a significant upfront investment, you can cut your energy bills over the long term. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that transitioning to solar energy enables Thornton homeowners to save around $900 per year.
Various solar companies provide different services. Be sure to review each company and get quotes from all before booking your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in Thornton
Look for Thornton solar companies that have at least 3.5 out of 5 stars in customer ratings on Google Reviews and other review websites. The company should also have a respectable rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Looking at previous customer reviews will provide a sense of how other homeowners viewed the company, so be cautious if you see a pattern of negative reviews.
Greentech Renewables Chicago
Services Offered
Ailey Solar Electric, Inc.
Services Offered
RxSun
Services Offered
WindSoleil Solar and Wind Energy Services
Services Offered
JD Pro Electric Inc
Services Offered
Summit Solar
Services Offered
FreeWorld Solar
Services Offered
Windfree Solar Co
Services Offered
Kapital Electric, Inc.
Services Offered
Illinois Solar Express, LLC
Services Offered
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Thornton?
Even areas with fluctuating sun amounts, including rainier and cloudier places such as Thornton, can still see the benefits of solar panels. Key reasons to consider solar are:
- Save on energy bills: You can reduce your energy bills by adopting solar energy. Power from solar panels substitutes the electricity purchased from utility companies.
- Charge an electric vehicle: With a solar panel system, you can fuel electric vehicles right from your home. Using your own solar power is the optimal method to guarantee your electric car is fueled with clean, renewable energy.
- Reduce environmental impact: Adopting solar reduces your carbon footprint by decreasing the use of fossil fuels that would be needed to power your home. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reports that electricity production is one of the biggest drivers of greenhouse gas emissions.
Facts about Thornton
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 Thornton?
Based on a survey we carried out in October 2023, the median cost of putting in solar panels across the country is $11,743.
What you'll pay to install solar panels is influenced by factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof positioning, shading, system size and labor. The price rises if you select any extras like animal guards, solar trackers or batteries.
Based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), NASA and the EIA, installing solar panels in Thornton typically costs $16,818.
How much can you save by going solar in Thornton?
Solar panel installation is a sizable initial investment, but you can expect to see big savings reflected in your energy bills with time.
Money savings in Thornton from going solar
After transitioning fully to solar power, Thornton homeowners usually see cost savings. However, recovering the initial investment requires time, and things like rain and tree shade affect the timeline for seeing returns 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, Thornton's average payback period for solar is 18 years.
- Annual solar savings in Thornton: On average, Thornton homeowners can save $904 per year using solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from the EIA, the Department of Energy and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: Based on our data from the EIA and NASA, if you make the full switch to solar energy, you can anticipate saving approximately $10,400 over a 25-year period.
Energy savings in Thornton from going solar
Transitioning to solar not only saves money but also lowers your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the estimated CO2 emission reductions attainable by going solar.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Thornton?
Several solar incentives are offered to Thornton homeowners. Some programs are available to all Illinois residents, whereas others differ by city, municipality and utility company.
Accessible solar incentives for Illinois homeowners, per DSIRE, include:
| 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 Thornton solar installer?
When selecting a professional solar panel installation company, first review these key considerations.
What size system do you need?
The right solar system size for you relies on how much energy your household uses, as well as the system's energy production ratio. Houses with higher energy demands often need more extensive solar installations. If the system isn't expansive enough, it could struggle to generate sufficient electricity to power your whole 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 obtain the required permits through your local building department and arrange an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not every house gets the same sun exposure. Nearby trees, rainfall and harsh weather conditions can limit sunlight. If your home lacks sufficient sunlight, you may need more panels with increased wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
To store additional energy, many panel systems come equipped with a solar battery. This feature is invaluable when sunlight is scarce and helps to prevent power loss. However, opting for battery storage could increase overall installation expenses.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
You can select from several types of solar panels, each differing in design, life expectancy and efficiency. These factors not only affect the price, but also the speed at which you’ll need to replace panels and how much space the panels take up 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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