Solar Panel Cost Guide in Sugar Grove, IL (2023 Update)

  • Sugar Grove Solar Installation Cost: $12,479
  • 25-Year Savings: $11,367
  • Payback Period: 13.1 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 Sugar Grove

Here's how much it might cost to install solar panels in Sugar Grove.

Although the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Sugar Grove typically cost around 2.73. The average solar panel system size in Sugar Grove is around 6.5 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $12,479 for a solar installation, or $17,845 before the 30% federal solar tax credit is applied.

The true cost of your system can be above or below the average in Sugar Grove based on a few factors, such as the brand of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire. But, once you've paid the upfront cost of installation, the savings for most homeowners is typically fruitful, with a net average savings of about $14,000 over 20 years on utility bills.

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

Solar savings over time in Sugar Grove

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-11,323
3 years $-9,011
5 years $-6,698
7 years $-4,386
9 years $-2,074
11 years $239
13 years $2,551
15 years $4,863
17 years $7,176
19 years $9,488
21 years $11,800
23 years $14,113
25 years $16,425

Top Solar Installers in Sugar Grove

Although it's possible to install solar panels on your own, it involves extra time and know-how. That's one of the reasons the majority of homeowners choose to hire a solar panel installer. The expertise that solar installers offer can be valuable as well, especially if you aren't sure what brand of solar equipment would be right for your home.

Working with a licensed solar company can help your solar project go smoothly. Here are our recommendations:

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 Sugar Grove

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Sugar Grove

While the average cost of a solar system in Sugar Grove is $12,479, your final cost may be higher or lower than that. There are quite a few factors that can have a major impact on the cost of a residential solar panel installation. Below are some of the more important things to consider.

Solar Equipment

Solar system size, which is measured in kilowatts, is one of the largest factors that affects the overall cost of going solar. For that reason, it's a priority to accurately assess the size of the solar energy system needed for your home by figuring out your energy needs. The kind of solar panels and equipment you get is another factor that will significantly impact costs. Solar panels that are more efficient, like monocrystalline panels, tend to cost more. 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 falls within your budget.

Solar Financing Terms

Most solar companies in Sugar Grove offer solar loans, which reduce your upfront costs of installing a solar system. When figuring out your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you'll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar panel installer you select will play a role in your total cost to adopt solar energy. Different companies will charge different amounts for the equipment and labor. Additionally, some companies in Sugar Grove know more about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.

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 $9,985 13.6 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $13,619 13.3 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $17,406 13.1 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $21,346 12.8 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $25,438 12.6 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $29,684 12.3 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $34,082 12.0 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $38,634 11.8 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

Since the brand of solar panels and the company you choose has an impact on your costs and your system's durability and efficiency, it's important to pick the right ones for you. Here are some things to keep in mind to help with your decision:

  • Contract: Before signing a contract with a solar company, make sure you look it over completely so you understand the terms. Also, ask questions if you're unsure about some of the terms, such as what to do if a part breaks or malfunctions and what services you can expect from them.
  • Installation Process: One of the most important things to understand when going solar is the installation process itself. Be sure to clarify any details you should know with your solar installer, such as what permits you should secure and what the project timeline is.
  • Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years in most cases offer high-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and kinds of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar company you're considering has it.

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 Sugar Grove, IL Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Sugar Grove?

The average cost of solar panels in Sugar Grove 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 certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Can you get solar panels for free in Sugar Grove?

You can't get solar panels for free in Sugar Grove. 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 want to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.

Can solar panels completely eradicate my electricity bills?

It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Sugar Grove, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to contact a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.

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

The exact number of solar panels you need depends on your household energy needs and how much sunlight your roof gets. You can take a 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 buy between 20 and 35 panels to cover 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.

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