Solar Panel Cost Guide in Pistakee Highlands, IL (2023 Update)

  • Pistakee Highlands Solar Installation Cost: $12,465
  • 25-Year Savings: $10,147
  • Payback Period: 13.8 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated September 15, 2023

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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 Pistakee Highlands

Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Pistakee Highlands.

The average cost of solar panels in Pistakee Highlands is 2.73 per watt. Using this figure, a typical 6.5-kW system would cost about $12,460 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

These figures are just averages, and how much solar costs for you will look different based on factors unique to your home and what company you want to go with. For many homeowners, the upfront cost of solar panels is worth paying. On average you could be looking at about $13,000 in savings on electricity bills over 20 years.

Click the button below to get connected to a reputable solar installer in your area for a custom estimate.

Solar savings over time in Pistakee Highlands

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,309
3 years $-8,997
5 years $-6,684
7 years $-4,372
9 years $-2,059
11 years $253
13 years $2,565
15 years $4,878
17 years $7,190
19 years $9,502
21 years $11,815
23 years $14,127
25 years $16,439

Top Solar Installers in Pistakee Highlands

Do-it-yourself solar panel installation is a way to cut costs, but it's an undertaking that can be a pain. Taking advantage of a solar panel installer can make your swap to solar power much easier. Also, companies with a high reputation that cost more upfront could actually save you money in the long run because of their warranties, repair services and expert design.

There are several licensed solar professionals that can help you install your solar system. Here are our suggestions:

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

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Pistakee Highlands

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Pistakee Highlands

There are many criteria that can influence your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar system.

Solar Equipment

System size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of installing solar panels. Because of that, it's a priority to accurately gauge the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your typical energy use. 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 choose the most efficient solar panel brands, you'll end up paying more upfront than if you opted for the most affordable panels. However, more efficient panels could save you more over time on your energy bills. Additionally, add-on products, like solar batteries, can bring your total well above the Pistakee Highlands average.

Solar Financing Terms

If paying for a solar system in cash is too expensive, solar loans are an affordable choice because they decrease your upfront costs and allow you to pay for your system over five to seven years on average. 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 finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs considerably.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The last major cost factor you should take into consideration is the installer you choose. Given the booming popularity of green energy solutions in Pistakee Highlands, you'll have many options to choose from, but each comes at various price points for labor and equipment. Larger national companies typically have lower costs, but some local companies keep up with them by offering sales and discounts. While the smaller companies might not have access to specific equipment options like Tesla Powerwall batteries or add-on services like electric vehicle 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 $8,875 14.3 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $12,138 14.1 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $15,555 13.8 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $19,125 13.5 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $22,848 13.2 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $26,723 13.0 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $30,751 12.7 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $34,933 12.4 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

There are a large number of companies available in Pistakee Highlands, and some homeowners feel overwhelmed considering their options. Selecting the right company for you can be challenging, so here are some tips to help you decide:

  • Installation Process: An important thing to understand when adopting solar power is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar company, such as what permits you should acquire and how long the project will take.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Each solar panel brand and model offers varying levels of quality, longevity and efficiency. They will come at different prices as well. The company you choose has an impact on which solar panel brands you have access to.
  • Contract: Look through the contract terms carefully to make sure you understand how much it will cost, project timeline incentives and warranties.
  • Reputation: Well-established companies likely have a solid reputation. This is important because it ensures that it will not only see your solar installation through, but will also provide adequate aftercare and customer service, such as part repairs and replacements.

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

Best Warranty Coverage

ADT Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Pistakee Highlands, IL Solar Cost FAQs

What is the average cost of installing solar panels in Pistakee Highlands?

The average cost of solar panels in Pistakee Highlands 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 such as 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?

Cost is definitely one of the most important things to keep in mind when buying solar panels, but other important factors include efficiency, durability, and quality.

Does Pistakee Highlands have a net metering program?

Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just give you credit toward your future power bills.

How many solar panels do I need to power my home?

To figure out how many solar panels you need, you should find out how much energy your home needs 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 home 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.

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