Solar Panel Cost Guide in Highland Park, IL (Mar 2023)

  • Highland Park Solar Installation Cost: $12,078
  • 25-Year Savings: $10,534
  • Payback Period: 13.4 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated March 14, 2023

Why you can trust EcoWatch

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 Highland Park

We break down average solar pricing in Highland Park.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Highland Park, the average cost of solar panels is 2.73 per watt. The average Highland Park homeowner needs a 6.3-kilowatt system, which would cost about $12,078 with the federal tax credit, or $17,272 before the 30% tax credit is applied.

The actual price you pay can go higher or lower than the average in Highland Park depending on a variety of factors, such as the kind of solar panels you choose and the solar contractor you hire. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average homeowners in Highland Park see about $14,000 in savings on utility bills over 20 years.

To calculate your potential ROI and connect with a local solar company, click the button below.

Solar savings over time in Highland Park

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,173
3 years $-9,364
5 years $-7,555
7 years $-5,746
9 years $-3,937
11 years $-2,128
13 years $-319
15 years $1,490
17 years $3,298
19 years $5,107
21 years $6,916
23 years $8,725
25 years $10,534

Top Solar Installers in Highland Park

Installing solar panels on your own can be a challenging undertaking, which is why using a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Solar warranties and repairs are typically included in the cost of installation when you hire a solar contractor too, which can save you more money over time.

If you'd like to go solar but still aren't certain which solar system installer to go with, here are our recommendations for providers in Highland Park:

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 (coming 2022)

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
4.5

  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

See all of the solar companies in Highland Park

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Highland Park

For many Highland Park homeowners, the decision to install solar panels rests on cost. However, the range of solar installation costs can be quite wide in Highland Park, with typical prices between $20,000 to $40,000. There are numerous factors that greatly influence the price you'll pay, which we'll go over below.

Solar Equipment

System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it's important to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. The kind of solar equipment you choose can bring your price up or down by thousands or even tens of thousands of dollars. If you get 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, higher efficiency could save you more in the long run on your energy bills. In addition, add-on products, such as solar batteries, can bump up your total well above the Highland Park average.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar installers in Highland Park provide solar loans, which reduce the initial cost of installing solar panels. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of loans, including the amount of 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 interest rate could reduce your costs remarkably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar company you choose to handle your switch to renewable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar installation companies in Highland Park, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Companies that only sell high-efficiency and high-priced products — like Maxeon solar panels from SunPower or Tesla Powerwall batteries — so choosing those installers will generally come at a higher cost. It's best to do some research and choose a company that has the products, warranties and services you're looking for and also is within 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 $2.84 $11,925 $9,531 13.9 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $13,014 13.6 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $16,649 13.4 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $20,438 13.1 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $24,379 12.8 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $28,473 12.6 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $32,721 12.3 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $37,121 12.0 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the model of solar panels and the company you choose significantly influences your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to select the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies offer various brands and models of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar panel company you're considering has it.
  • Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company regarding how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar system is installed, such as repairing your electrical system or roof.
  • Warranty: If you care about the endurance of your solar energy system, ensuring your installer offers a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty can give you some peace of mind.
  • Contract: Even though reading through a contract can be tedious, it's important to do it thoroughly so you can be sure you understand how much the equipment and services will cost and how part repairs and replacements will be handled.

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 (coming 2022)

Best Technology

Tesla Energy

★★★★★
4.5

  • Price-match guarantee
  • Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
  • Best solar battery on the market
  • Some reported issues with customer service
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

EcoWatch's Highland Park, IL Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Highland Park?

The average cost of solar panels in Highland Park 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 stuff such as the type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you consume.

Are solar panels free in Highland Park?

You can't get solar panels for free in Highland Park. 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 rather own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Highland Park?

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 utility bills.

How long do solar panels last in Highland Park?

On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency decreases by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher level 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.

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