Solar Panel Cost Guide in Catlin, IL (2023 Update)

  • Catlin Solar Installation Cost: $12,115
  • 25-Year Savings: $12,522
  • Payback Period: 12.3 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Catlin

Let's take a look at the average cost of solar panels in Catlin.

While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Catlin generally cost around 2.73. Since a 6.3-kW system is needed to cover the energy costs of a typical home in Catlin, the average price of going solar will be about $12,116 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

The actual price you pay can be higher or lower than the average in Catlin depending on a variety of factors, such as the type of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. Many homeowners find going solar is a sound investment. The average homeowner in Catlin can save around $15,000 on their energy bills over 20 years.

To receive a free quote from a highly rated solar installer in Catlin, you can click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Catlin

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-12,033
3 years $-11,868
5 years $-11,704
7 years $-11,540
9 years $-11,376
11 years $-11,211
13 years $-11,047
15 years $-10,883
17 years $-10,719
19 years $-10,555
21 years $-10,390
23 years $-10,226
25 years $-10,062

Top Solar Installers in Catlin

Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it requires extra energy and handiness. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar companies provide can be helpful as well, especially if you don't quite know what kind of solar equipment you need.

If you're searching for a solar company in Catlin, we've compiled a list of our top suggestions here:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Catlin

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Catlin

Although the average cost of a solar system in Catlin is $12,116, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are many factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to keep in mind.

Solar Equipment

The cost of solar panels varies by thousands of dollars due to a few different factors. One of the notable factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems that have greater efficiency or power production use better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can increase costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $2,730. There are a lot of different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Generally, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you're looking to install can affect your total cost. If you just need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.

Solar Financing Terms

For some homeowners, paying for solar panels out of pocket can be a challenge. Solar loans are available from most installers in Catlin, which can reduce, or in some cases eliminate, your upfront costs to make solar more accessible. It's a good idea to factor the interest you'll pay in your final cost estimate. If you can afford to pay a larger down payment, you can reduce your total costs and how long it'll take to pay back the loan.

Solar Panel Installation Company

Finally, the company you get to install your solar system can affect the cost. Catlin's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Catlin are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you make good use of additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $2.84 $11,925 $11,392 12.8 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $15,495 12.5 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $19,751 12.3 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $24,160 12.0 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $28,722 11.8 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $33,437 11.6 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $38,304 11.3 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $43,325 11.1 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Reputation: Make sure your solar system installer has a good reputation by confirming it has certifications and licenses, checking its number of years in business and reading reviews by past customers and solar experts like EcoWatch.
  • Warranty: Warranties that provide coverage for defective panels and repairs over around 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering that kind of warranty is one sign of a good company.
  • Contract: When reading through your solar company's contract, ask questions about any terms you're not sure of and make sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system component breaking or if the company goes out of business.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Homeowners will have different preferences for panels depending on their roof configurations and energy needs. While there are many options for which kind of solar panel you can get, not every company will have access to the exact one you may want or need, so be sure to peruse their list of offerings before making your decision.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Solar Financing

Blue Raven Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Industry-leading in-house financing
  • Competitive pricing
  • Excellent reputation
  • Doesn't offer solar batteries

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Catlin, IL Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Catlin?

The average cost of solar panels in Catlin is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on things like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Can you get solar panels for free in Catlin?

You can't get solar panels for free in Catlin. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Can solar panels significantly reduce my energy bills?

Solar panels can potentially eliminate your electricity bills depending on your location and how much sunlight your home gets. Even if it doesn't get rid of them completely, you can save a lot of money on your bills, about $777.23 per year.

How many solar panels should I get to power my home?

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy consumption and the amount of sunlight your roof gets. You can look at your energy bills for the past year to get an idea of the solar system size you'll need. The average household has to buy between 20 and 35 panels to account for their typical energy usage.

Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.

Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.

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