What drives your savings
- Your electric bill: the more you spend with ComEd or Ameren, the more solar has to offset.
- Your roof: south, west or east-facing, with little shade, and with at least several years of life left in the shingles.
- When you use power: daytime use is worth the full retail rate, while exports earn the lower supply credit.
- Incentives: Illinois Shines and the utility rebate together can cover a large share of system cost.
- Financing: cash, loan, lease and PPA each change the math, often by thousands.
What solar costs
Before incentives, U.S. residential solar has generally run around $2.50–$3.50 per watt installed, so a 7 kW system lists at roughly $17,500–$24,500. In Illinois, Illinois Shines and the utility rebate lower that substantially, and a lease or PPA can bring the upfront cost to $0. Quotes for your exact roof are the only way to know.
Signs your home is a good fit
- Your average electric bill is over about $100 a month.
- You own the home and plan to stay several years, or you'd choose a transferable lease.
- Your roof has good sun for most of the day.
- You're adding load, like an EV, heat pump or home office.
Check your options in two minutes: get a free quote for your Illinois home.
Sources
This guide is general information, not tax, legal or financial advice. Incentive programs change, so confirm current terms with your installer, your utility and a tax professional.