Solar Panel Cost Guide in DeKalb, IL (2023 Update)
- DeKalb Solar Installation Cost: $12,410
- 25-Year Savings: $10,202
- Payback Period: 13.7 Years
See cost of a solar system near you:
Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code!
Updated September 15, 2023
Why you can trust EcoWatch
Average Cost of Solar Panels in DeKalb
Let's take a look at the average cost of solar in DeKalb.
Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in DeKalb, the average cost of solar panels is 2.73 per watt. Since a 6.5-kW system is needed to cover the energy needs of a typical home in DeKalb, the average price of going solar will be about $12,402 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of the cost of a solar panel system. The true cost of making the switch to solar can vary based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what solar installer you go with. For most homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $13,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.
Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar company in DeKalb for a custom quote.
Solar savings over time in DeKalb
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-12,335 |
| 3 years | $-12,184 |
| 5 years | $-12,033 |
| 7 years | $-11,882 |
| 9 years | $-11,732 |
| 11 years | $-11,581 |
| 13 years | $-11,430 |
| 15 years | $-11,279 |
| 17 years | $-11,129 |
| 19 years | $-10,978 |
| 21 years | $-10,827 |
| 23 years | $-10,676 |
| 25 years | $-10,526 |
Top Solar Installers in DeKalb
Putting up solar panels on your own can be a time-consuming undertaking, which is why getting a solar installer is a good option for many homeowners. Plus, if you aren't sure what type of solar panels and equipment you need, a solar expert can help you figure that out after a site survey and consultation.
Working with a vetted solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
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 DeKalb
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in DeKalb
Though the average cost of a solar system in DeKalb is $12,402, your final cost may be above or below the average. There are several factors that can have a significant impact on the cost of a solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to take into consideration.
Solar Equipment
When it comes to estimating the cost of a solar system in DeKalb, one of the most important factors is the size of the system you need. Solar systems are sized by kilowatts (kW) and are chiefly based on your home's energy consumption, which you can gauge by looking at past power bills. Your overall cost can increase by around $2,730 for each additional kilowatt you need. The brand and kind of equipment you want for your solar system can raise or lower the price quite significantly. If you prefer a trusted brand name like Tesla or SunPower, these are often more expensive than other brands. Efficiency also matters. Whether you're opting for high efficiency because you have limited roof space or just want maximum energy production, you can expect a higher equipment cost, but this can typically lead to more savings over time. Plus, if you want add-ons like an electric vehicle charger or solar batteries, this will also raise the cost.
Solar Financing Terms
Solar panels can save you money on utility bills over time, but they can also be a significant investment. That's why many DeKalb homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. When considering your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you decide on a solar loan. Also, paying a higher down payment can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar installer you opt for to handle your switch to clean energy can play a role in your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in DeKalb, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Larger national companies generally have lower costs, but some local companies undercut them by promoting sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or extra 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 | $8,967 | 14.3 years |
| 8 kW | $2.78 | $15,594 | $12,262 | 14.0 years |
| 10 kW | $2.73 | $19,110 | $15,709 | 13.7 years |
| 12 kW | $2.68 | $22,473 | $19,310 | 13.4 years |
| 14 kW | $2.62 | $25,684 | $23,063 | 13.2 years |
| 16 kW | $2.57 | $28,741 | $26,969 | 12.9 years |
| 18 kW | $2.51 | $31,646 | $31,028 | 12.6 years |
| 20 kW | $2.46 | $34,398 | $35,240 | 12.3 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are many companies to choose from in DeKalb, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Choosing the right company for you can be tough, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Contract: Although reading through a contract can take a lot of time, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can make sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.
- Reputation: Your solar installer should have a good reputation as a company and have proven expertise in the field. A couple of ways to check this are to look for whether a company has technicians that hold a certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) and if it has good reviews from past customers.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and types of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.
- Warranty: Warranties that cover 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 indication of a good company.
Best Solar Financing
Blue Raven Solar
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
EcoWatch's DeKalb, IL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in DeKalb?
The average cost of solar panels in DeKalb is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on things such as the kind of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.
Can you get solar panels for free in DeKalb?
You can't get solar panels for free in DeKalb. However, you may still be able to afford them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you'd rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
How will solar panels impact my property value?
Buying or financing solar panels for your home can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in DeKalb is currently $174,964, so you could be looking at a value of about $7,174 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in DeKalb is a rewarding investment.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs 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 install 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.