Solar Panel Cost Guide in Cicero, IL (2023 Update)
- Cicero Solar Installation Cost: $12,211
- 25-Year Savings: $10,400
- Payback Period: 13.5 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Cicero
Find out what the average cost of solar panels are in Cicero.
The national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, but in Cicero it's 2.73 per watt. The average Cicero homeowner needs a 6.4-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,211 with the federal tax credit, or $17,462 before the 30% tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar energy system. The exact cost of going solar can vary quite a bit depending on a few factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the payback for most homeowners is usually rewarding, with a net average savings of about $13,000 over 20 years on utility bills.
To see your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Cicero
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-11,055 |
| 3 years | $-8,743 |
| 5 years | $-6,430 |
| 7 years | $-4,118 |
| 9 years | $-1,806 |
| 11 years | $507 |
| 13 years | $2,819 |
| 15 years | $5,131 |
| 17 years | $7,444 |
| 19 years | $9,756 |
| 21 years | $12,068 |
| 23 years | $14,381 |
| 25 years | $16,693 |
Top Solar Installers in Cicero
Installing solar panels by yourself can be a difficult undertaking, which is why hiring a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Also, companies with a high reputation that are more expensive upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
There are various licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
See all of the solar companies in Cicero
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Cicero
Though the average cost of a solar system in Cicero is $12,211, your actual cost may be higher or lower than that. There are several factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more crucial things to keep in mind.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar system you need for your home, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most significant cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $2,730. The solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you opt for the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. On the other hand, more efficient panels could save you more in the long run on your electric bills. In addition, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Cicero average.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for a solar system out of pocket is difficult, solar loans are a solid route because they lower your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. When trying to figure out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panel system can affect your pricing. Cicero's solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric car charger installation, they might be cheaper overall.
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 | $9,307 | 14.0 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $12,715 | 13.8 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $16,276 | 13.5 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $19,990 | 13.2 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $23,856 | 13.0 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $27,876 | 12.7 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $32,048 | 12.4 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $36,374 | 12.2 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are numerous companies to choose from in Cicero, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Warranty: Warranties that cover panel repairs and maintenance over a long period of time such as 25 years are the best you can get in the business, and offering such a warranty is one indication of a good company.
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it fully so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will offer different brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's Cicero, IL Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Cicero?
This is a hard question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on a variety of factors. Broadly speaking, it costs about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want other solar equipment or more efficient panels, or if you have above-average energy consumption. On the flip side, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less efficient solar panels.
Can you get solar panels for free in Cicero?
A solar panel system isn't free in Cicero, but there are some options that can make getting them more affordable, such as leasing solar panels or getting a solar loan. There may also be local programs or incentives that can further reduce the cost.
Does Cicero have a net metering program?
Each state has some kind of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states allow you to sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a larger amount of energy production.
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.