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.
To complete a high-quality solar panel installation in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, you'll need to hire a properly certified, qualified and experienced solar installer. We've put together a list of the best solar companies in Glen Ellyn to help you choose the right one.
Prior to selecting an installer, ask others for suggestions, vet potential companies and get multiple quotes to identify the right company for your needs. You can choose a local solar company in Glen Ellyn or use a well-known national brand.
Although solar panels are a big upfront investment, you can lower your energy bills over the long run. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that transitioning to solar energy allows Glen Ellyn homeowners to save approximately $900 per year.
Various solar companies provide different products. Take the time to review each company and get quotes from all before arranging your solar panel installation.
Focus on Glen Ellyn solar companies that have at least 3.5 out of 5 stars based on customer critiques on Google Reviews and similar sites. Make sure the company has a high rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB) when choosing a solar company.
Reviewing previous customer reviews will give you a sense of how other homeowners felt about the company, so be wary if you see a pattern of negative reviews.
Even areas with fluctuating sun amounts, including rainier and cloudier places such as Glen Ellyn, can still benefit from solar panels. Key reasons to consider solar include these:
According to the results of our survey done in October 2023, the average cost for solar panel installation nationally 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 increases if you select any accessories like batteries, solar trackers or animal guards.
In Glen Ellyn, solar panel installation costs around $17,196, according to data from the EIA, NASA and the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Putting in solar panels means substantial spending upfront, but you can make those costs back through big reductions in your energy bills down the line.
After fully switching to solar power, Glen Ellyn homeowners typically see cost savings. However, recouping the initial investment requires time, and things like rain and tree shade impact the timeline for seeing returns on your solar investment.
In addition to monetary savings, switching to solar energy lowers your carbon footprint and environmental impact. We've calculated the estimated CO2 emission reductions you can realize by going solar based on data from NASA and the EPA.
Experts Ready to Help
There are a number of solar incentives available to homeowners in Glen Ellyn. Specific programs cover all Illinois residents, while others are based on your city, utility company and municipality.
Here are solar incentives accessible for Illinois residents, as listed by 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. |
When selecting a solar panel installation professional, first review these key considerations.
The size of your system depends on your household’s energy consumption and the solar panel system's production ratio. Larger households often consume 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.
Specific permits and state or local regulations could affect your solar project. You’ll need to apply for the required permits through your local building department and arrange an inspection.
Not all residences get equal amounts of sunlight. Area tree cover, rain levels and harsh weather can impact sunlight access. If your home doesn't get adequate sun, it may require extra panels with higher wattage.
Many solar panel systems include a battery. Solar batteries store extra power, which is particularly beneficial when you want to avoid power loss in a storm. Adding battery storage may increase the overall expense.
There are several solar panel types available, with differences in life expectancy, efficiency and design. These aspects affect not just the cost, but also how often panels will need to be replaced and roof space requirements.
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.
Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics. Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information. Go back to top
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