Solar Panel Cost Guide in North Chicago, IL (2023 Update)
- North Chicago Solar Installation Cost: $12,084
- 25-Year Savings: $10,528
- Payback Period: 13.4 Years
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Updated September 15, 2023
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in North Chicago
Find out what the average cost of a solar system is in North Chicago.
The average cost of a solar panel system in North Chicago is 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 6.3-kW system would cost about $12,078 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.
The prices above are just estimates to give you an idea of how much a solar panel system could cost. The true cost of going solar can vary quite a bit based on several factors, such as what size system you need, your energy usage and what company you go with. But, once you've paid the initial cost of installation, the ROI for most homeowners is quite rewarding, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on electricity bills.
For a customized quote from a local solar installer that has been pre-vetted by the EcoWatch team, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in North Chicago
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-10,928 |
| 3 years | $-8,615 |
| 5 years | $-6,303 |
| 7 years | $-3,990 |
| 9 years | $-1,678 |
| 11 years | $634 |
| 13 years | $2,947 |
| 15 years | $5,259 |
| 17 years | $7,571 |
| 19 years | $9,884 |
| 21 years | $12,196 |
| 23 years | $14,508 |
| 25 years | $16,821 |
Top Solar Installers in North Chicago
Although you can install solar panels on your own, it involves extra time and expertise. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to go with a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar companies provide can be helpful as well, especially if you don't quite know what brand of solar equipment would be right for your home.
Working with a licensed 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 North Chicago
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in North Chicago
Cost is typically one of the most important factors for homeowners who want to invest in solar. There are a few primary factors that determine your overall cost in North Chicago: solar equipment and system size, financing options and the solar installation company you choose. We'll discuss each of these briefly below.
Solar Equipment
Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that determines the overall cost of going solar. That's why it's important to accurately ascertain the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your average energy use. The model of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will substantially impact costs. Solar panels that have higher efficiency, like monocrystalline panels, tend to be more costly. Plus, solar equipment consists of more than just the solar panels themselves. You'll also need to make decisions about 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's in your budget.
Solar Financing Terms
If paying for solar panels in cash is difficult, solar loans are a popular route because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. It's wise to add 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 off the loan.
Solar Panel Installation Company
The solar company you choose to handle your switch to sustainable energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in North Chicago, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. The size of the company can sometimes play the most considerable role in your costs. Larger national companies, like SunPro and Sunrun, often have lower prices because of greater resources and better pricing. Smaller local companies might be more costly, but they generally have better customer service and more customization options, and the occasional sale or promotion can bring their pricing lower to compete with bigger names.
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
There are numerous companies to choose from in North Chicago, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Picking the right company for you can be difficult, so here are some tips to help you decide:
- Reputation: Companies that have been operating for many years likely have a good reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar project through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer support, such as part repairs and replacements.
- Solar Panel Brands: The brand of solar panel you'd like to install plays a part in which installer you should go with, since different companies have different panels.
- Contract: Look through the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the cost breakdown, project completion timeline rebates and warranties.
- Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the company with regard to how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar panel system is installed, such as updating or replacing 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 North Chicago, IL Solar Cost FAQs
What is the average cost of installing solar panels in North Chicago?
The average cost of solar panels in North Chicago 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 type of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
What other factors should I consider other than cost when buying solar panels?
The upfront cost is a key factor to consider, but whether it's the most important for you depends on why you decided to go solar. In cities where rooftop space is limited, efficiency can be more important than the cost. Other factors that are important to keep in mind are the quality and durability of your solar panels.
Do solar panels increase how much your home is worth?
Solar panels can increase the value of your property by about 4%, according to research done by Zillow. The average home value in North Chicago is currently $133,222, so you can look forward to a value of about $5,462 more than houses without a solar system. The exact figures will vary, but most experts agree that installing solar panels in North Chicago is a rewarding investment.
How often do you have to replace solar panels?
On average, the lifespan of solar panels is 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.