10 best solar companies in DeKalb, Illinois
Josephine NesbitContributing Writer
Josephine Nesbit is a contributing writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in home impr...
Updated Apr. 22, 2024
Editorial note: Homefront (defined in the Disclosure below) may earn a commission from affiliate partner links featured on our site. This commission does not influence our editors' opinions or evaluations
Read MoreJoin more than 1,246 people who have received a quote in the last 30 days.
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 perform a high-quality solar panel installation in DeKalb, Illinois, you'll need a properly certified, skilled and experienced solar installer. We've compiled a list of the best solar companies in DeKalb to help you choose the right one.
Before selecting an installer, ask others for recommendations, screen potential installers and request multiple quotes to find the best company for your requirements. You can choose a local solar company in DeKalb or decide on 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 installing solar panels requires a substantial initial investment, it can decrease your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) indicates that switching to solar energy allows DeKalb homeowners to save an average of $900 annually.
The offerings from different solar technicians vary. Be sure to compare companies and get quotes before you set up your solar panel installation.
Find the top solar company for you in DeKalb
Look for DeKalb solar companies that have a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars in customer ratings on Google Reviews and similar review platforms. The company should also have a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
You should look through past customer reviews to gain insight into other homeowners' thoughts about the company. Keep an eye out for frequent negative feedback as a potential red flag.
Greenlink Energy Solutions
Services Offered
Iconic Energy
Services Offered
Independence Renewable Energy, LLC
Services Offered
Phoenix Exteriors Roofing & Solar
Services Offered
ilumen Solar
Services Offered
Kapital Electric, Inc.
Services Offered
Nelnet Renewable Energy
Services Offered
Certasun
Services Offered
Summit Solar
Services Offered
Safeguard Solar LLC
Services Offered
What are the biggest reasons for going solar in DeKalb?
Even areas with variable sun amounts, including rainier and overcast places such as DeKalb, can still see the benefits of solar panels. Key reasons to switch to solar include these:
- Charge an electric vehicle: Solar energy lets you charge electric cars at your house. Using your own power is the best way to make sure your electric vehicle runs on renewable energy.
- Save on energy bills: Switching to solar enables you to reduce your energy bills. Electricity from solar panels works in place of the utility-supplied power you'd normally buy.
- Reduce environmental impact: Moving to solar reduces your carbon footprint by preserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be utilized to power your house. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that generating electricity is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions.
Facts about DeKalb
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 DeKalb?
Our survey from October 2023 found that the national median price of solar panel installation is $11,743.
The price of solar panel installation is impacted by your roof orientation, area, system size, shading, labor costs and sunlight availability. Choosing accessories such as solar trackers, batteries or animal guards will increase the overall cost.
According to statistics from NASA, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and the EIA the typical price to install solar panels in DeKalb is $17,092.
How much can you save by going solar in DeKalb?
Solar panel installation is a sizable initial investment, but you can expect to see big savings reflected in your energy bills over time.
Money savings in DeKalb from going solar
After transitioning fully to solar power, DeKalb homeowners typically see cost savings. However, recouping the initial investment requires time, and things like rain and tree shade affect the timeline for realizing returns on your solar investment.
- Payback period: The average payback period is the amount of time required for a solar panel system to recover its upfront cost through energy bill savings. Based on our calculations, which leverage data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, DeKalb's standard solar payback period is 18 years.
- Annual solar savings in DeKalb: On average, DeKalb homeowners can save $904 per year utilizing solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from NASA, the EIA and the Department of Energy.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: After fully switching to solar power, you can anticipate savings of about $10,202 over 25 years, according to our calculations from NASA and the EIA.
Energy savings in DeKalb from going solar
Adopting solar not only saves money but also decreases your carbon emissions and environmental footprint. Our calculations using NASA and EPA data show the projected CO2 emission reductions attainable by going solar.
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in DeKalb?
There are a number of solar incentives open to homeowners in DeKalb. Certain programs extend to all Illinois residents, while others are determined by your city, utility company and municipality.
Here are solar incentives available to Illinois residents, according to 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. |
What are common factors to consider before hiring a DeKalb solar installer?
Consider these key points before hiring a solar installation expert.
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 more extensive solar setups. An undersized system risks inadequate energy generation to completely power your home.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar plans may be impacted by specific permits and state or local rules. You must acquire proper permits through your local building department and arrange for an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all homes receive the same amount of sunlight. Nearby trees, rainfall and extreme weather can affect sunlight access. If your property doesn’t get adequate sunlight, then you may need more panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A number of solar panel systems come with a solar battery. Solar batteries conserve extra energy, which can be helpful for preventing power loss during a lack of sunlight. Opting for battery storage could increase the total cost.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
There are several solar panel types available, with differences in life expectancy, design and efficiency. These aspects affect not just the cost, but also panel replacement frequency and roof space requirements.
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.
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
Our editors may use AI as an input tool to tailor information in local markets. All content goes through a rigorous research and review process led by our team of writers and editors.
More on this topic...
Our guide explores the best solar companies available. Trinity and Elevation top our list for their services, and Sunrun rounds it out with its leasing options.
solarApr. 23
While you can save money installing DIY solar panels, it’s not a simple home improvement project and does require electrical know-how as well as roofing skills.
solarMar. 27
Sleek and innovative, solar shingles are gaining rapid popularity. They cost more than traditional solar panels but are also more aesthetically pleasing.
solarMar. 25
Solar panels last about 25 years, according to our expert. Our guide explains how to get the most out of your system’s life.
solarMar. 27