Solar Panel Cost Guide in Elmhurst, IL (2024 Update)
- Elmhurst Solar Installation Cost: $17,005
- 25-Year Savings: $10,265
- Payback Period: 18.8 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Elmhurst
We break down average solar pricing in Elmhurst.
Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Elmhurst typically cost about 4.The average solar panel system size in Elmhurst is around 6.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $17,005 for a solar installation, or $24,317 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
These figures are only averages, and how much solar costs for you will most likely look different based on your energy needs and what company you want to go with.Many homeowners find installing a solar system is a solid investment. The average homeowner in Elmhurst can save around $13,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years.
For a personalized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Elmhurst
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-15,849 |
| 3 years | $-13,537 |
| 5 years | $-11,224 |
| 7 years | $-8,912 |
| 9 years | $-6,600 |
| 11 years | $-4,287 |
| 13 years | $-1,975 |
| 15 years | $337 |
| 17 years | $2,650 |
| 19 years | $4,962 |
| 21 years | $7,274 |
| 23 years | $9,587 |
| 25 years | $11,899 |
Top Solar Installers in Elmhurst
Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can use up a lot of your time and energy. Hiring a solar panel installer can make your switch to solar power much easier. Also, companies with an outstanding reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run due to their warranties, repair services and expert design.
You can get a free estimate from a local solar installer on the cost of solar panels for your home. Here are some near you:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
See all of the solar companies in Elmhurst
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Elmhurst
Though the average cost of a solar system in Elmhurst is $17,005, your final cost may differ. There are many factors that can have a sizable 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 panel systems varies by thousands of dollars due to a variety of factors. One of the most significant factors is the system size, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). Solar power systems with better efficiency or power generation require better technology and/or more equipment, both of which can raise costs. For each additional kilowatt you need, your cost can go up by about $3,760.The type of solar panels and equipment you choose is another factor that will substantially influence costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. Furthermore, solar equipment goes beyond just the solar panels themselves. You’ll also need to decide on the kind of racks used to mount the panels, inverters, solar batteries, etc. It’s important to take all of this into consideration when looking for a solar system that falls within your budget.
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 Elmhurst homeowners choose to finance their solar panel systems to make going solar more affordable.You’ll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the total interest you’ll pay over the length of the loan. If you’re only able to get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or getting a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs remarkably.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to green energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Elmhurst, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment.Some companies only sell products with high efficiency and therefore a higher price point — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally cost more. It’s best to do some research and find a company that offers the products, warranties and services you want and also fit into your budget.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.91 | $16,424 | $4,575 | 19.6 years |
| 8 kW | $3.84 | $21,477 | $6,521 | 19.2 years |
| 10 kW | $3.76 | $26,320 | $8,677 | 18.8 years |
| 12 kW | $3.68 | $30,952 | $11,044 | 18.4 years |
| 14 kW | $3.61 | $35,374 | $13,622 | 18.0 years |
| 16 kW | $3.53 | $39,585 | $16,410 | 17.7 years |
| 18 kW | $3.46 | $43,586 | $19,409 | 17.3 years |
| 20 kW | $3.38 | $47,376 | $22,618 | 16.9 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
The solar installer you choose will affect not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you have access to. When choosing a solar company, there are a few important things you should take into account, such as:
- Solar Panel Brands: Not all solar companies carry the same brands of solar panels, so the brand and type of panel you want can play a considerable role in the company you choose.
- Reputation: Solar system installers that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely provide quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Warranty: If you’re concerned about the longevity of your solar panels, verifying that your company offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
- Contract: When reading over your solar installer’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 the company going out of business.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- 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
- Industry-leading in-house financing
- Competitive pricing
- Excellent reputation
- Doesn't offer solar batteries
Best for Leasing
Sunrun
- Expansive service area
- Many financing options
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Some reported issues with door-to-door sales
EcoWatch's Elmhurst, IL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Elmhurst?
This is a tough question to answer precisely, because the cost depends on many factors. Generally speaking, it costs about $18,800 for a 5-kW system and $37,600 for a 10-kW system after the ITC is applied. It will cost more if you want additional solar equipment or higher quality panels, or if you have higher-than-average energy consumption. On the other hand, you can spend less if you want a smaller solar panel system or less expensive solar panels.
Is it better to lease or buy solar panels in Elmhurst?
Leasing solar panels can be an option if you can’t pay upfront or get a solar loan, but since you don’t own the system, you can’t take advantage of many solar incentives. Also your home value won’t increase, so you’ll have less savings over time. If you can afford to buy a solar system upfront, then buying is the better option if you want the most bang for your buck from going solar.
Does Elmhurst have a net metering program?
The majority of states have net metering programs of some kind. Through these, you can either receive compensation for the extra power your system produces or or receive credits to put toward future energy bills. Currently there are just three states that don’t have any net metering laws: Alabama, Tennessee and South Dakota.
What solar power system size is right for my home?
To figure out what solar panel system size you need, you should find out how much energy your home uses and how much sunlight your home gets. For a general estimate, however, since each panel can usually produce about 250 to 400 watt-hours per hour, the average house will need 20 to 35 panels.
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.