10 best solar companies in Evanston, 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.
To get a high-quality solar panel installation in Evanston, Illinois, you'll need to find a certified, skilled and experienced solar installer. We've assembled a list of the best solar companies in Evanston to help you select the right one.
Before selecting an installer, ask others for recommendations, evaluate potential installers and request multiple quotes to find the right company for your needs. You can find a local solar company in Evanston 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 putting in solar panels requires a large initial investment, it can decrease your energy bills over time. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that changing to solar energy allows Evanston homeowners to save an average of $900 every year.
Not every solar company has the same offerings. Before scheduling your solar panel installation, compare different companies' offerings and get multiple quotes.
Find the top solar company for you in Evanston
Vet Evanston solar companies with a minimum of 3.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews and similar customer review platforms. The company should also have a good rating on Better Business Bureau (BBB).
Reviewing previous customer testimonials can provide insight into other homeowners' experiences dealing with the solar company. Frequent poor reviews are worth making a note of as a possible warning sign.
RxSun
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Windfree Solar Co
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JD Pro Electric Inc
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Kapital Electric, Inc.
Services Offered
FreeWorld Solar
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WindSoleil Solar and Wind Energy Services
Services Offered
93Energy Solar
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Atlas Solar Advisors
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Certasun
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Green Power Works Inc
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What are the biggest reasons for going solar in Evanston?
Even areas with changing sun amounts, including rainier and overcast places such as Evanston, can still benefit from solar panels. Major reasons to adopt solar are:
- Save on energy bills: Using solar energy enables you to reduce your electricity bills. The power generated by solar panels replaces electricity that would otherwise be bought from utility providers.
- Reduce environmental impact: Adopting solar panels shrinks your carbon footprint by conserving fossil fuels that would otherwise be used to run your home. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), power generation ranks among the top contributors to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Charge an electric vehicle: Solar energy gives you the ability to fuel electric cars at your house. Using your own power is the optimal way to make sure your electric vehicle uses renewable energy.
Facts about Evanston
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 Evanston?
Based on a survey we administered 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 hinges on factors such as your region, sunlight levels, roof positioning, shading, system size and labor. The price rises if you pick any accessories like solar trackers, batteries or animal guards.
In Evanston, solar panel installation costs an average of $16,818, according to data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the EIA and NASA.
How much can you save by going solar in Evanston?
Installing solar panels means considerable spending upfront, but you can make those costs back through major reductions in your energy bills down the line.
Money savings in Evanston from going solar
After moving completely to solar power, Evanston homeowners usually see cost savings. However, recovering 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 payback period refers to the time it takes a solar system to earn back its initial cost. According to our analysis of data from the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE), the EIA and NASA, the average payback period for solar installations in Evanston is 18 years.
- Annual solar savings in Evanston: On average, Evanston homeowners can save $904 per year utilizing solar energy, according to our calculations based on data from the Department of Energy, the EIA and NASA.
- Average total solar savings after 25 years: According to data we've compiled from the EIA and NASA, by switching fully to solar, you can expect to see a total savings of around $10,400 after 25 years.
Energy savings in Evanston from going solar
Not only does switching to solar save you money, but it also lowers your carbon footprint and its impact on the environment. Below are approximated CO2 emission reductions you can expect from going solar, according to our calculations based on data from NASA and the EPA.
- CO2 emissions reduced per year: 88 lb/MWh
- CO2 emissions reduced over 25 years: 2200 lb/MWh
Best solar installation for you
Experts Ready to Help
What solar incentives are available in Evanston?
Multiple solar incentives are available to Evanston homeowners. Some programs are offered to all Illinois residents, while others change by municipality, city 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 Evanston solar installer?
Before choosing a professional solar panel installation company, reflect on these key considerations.
What size system do you need?
Your solar panel system's size is contingent upon your home's energy consumption and the system's production capacity. Bigger households use more electricity and may require larger solar panel systems. An undersized system may be unable to fully energize your house.
Is your home subject to specific permits and regulations?
Your solar installation project could be subject to relevant codes and permit requirements by your state. You'll need to apply for the required permits from your local building department, as well as arrange an inspection.
Does your home get enough sunlight access?
Not all residences get equal levels of sunlight. The tree density, rainfall levels and harsh weather can impact solar reception. If your home doesn't get sufficient sun, it may require additional panels with higher wattage.
Do you need a solar battery?
A lot of solar panel systems provide a battery. Solar batteries preserve extra power, which is particularly beneficial when you want to avoid power loss during inclement weather. Installing battery storage may increase the installation cost.
Which type of solar panel do you want?
There are multiple 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 the space needed 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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