How To Get Free Solar Panels in Illinois

Step 1: Review Your Options

There are several programs that offer free solar panels and installations to residents of Illinois. Your options depend on a number of factors such as where you live, the type of energy system you need, and your income status. Based on these factors, you may also qualify for even more financial benefits like rebates and tax credits.

The following are some of the most popular and beneficial programs currently available in Illinois….

Power Purchase Agreement (PPA)

The most common path to “free” solar is a Power Purchase Agreement directly between you and a state-licensed solar energy company. Under a “PPA”, the solar company absorbs the full cost of the solar panel equipment and installation for you.

The solar company is technically the owner of the equipment, however, they are responsible for providing you with electricity produced from your home for a guaranteed fixed rate (unlike the unpredictable rising costs of traditional utilities). They are also responsible for any continued maintenance or repairs the solar system may require.

This can be a great option if you don’t want to buy or simply can’t afford to buy the solar panels outright. Even though the homeowner isn’t purchasing the actual solar system, they still enjoy the benefits of solar energy and save money on their electricity bills.

Illinois State Solar Programs

While Illinois does not have a state-sponsored rebate program, they do offer some of the better and more popular solar incentives in America.

Illinois Solar for All (ILSFA) is a program to help income-eligible homeowners, renters, nonprofits, and public facilities install solar panels with zero upfront costs. Eligible participants partner with vetted ILSFA Approved Vendors to receive solar installations and pay a reduced fee for the energy produced over time.

Read more: Illinois Solar For All (ILSFA) Program Guide

For businesses and commercial projects, Commonwealth Edison (the largest electric company in Illinois) offers the ComEd Distributed Generation (Solar) Rebate for nonresidential systems that pay up to $300 per kilowatt of solar capacity up to 2,000 kW. Schools and churches may also qualify for this rebate program.

Additionally, local governments and utility companies provide generous solar incentives and programs, each with unique eligibility requirements. When combined, the plethora of incentives in Illinois significantly offset the cost of going solar and can even provide a financial return.

Considering how specific each program is to the details of your home, we strongly suggest you speak with a local solar expert to review all of your best options.

Additional Financial Incentives for Illinois Homeowners

In addition to these programs, there are many financial benefits for homeowners in Illinois who switch to solar energy. Some of the biggest incentives and benefits are:

1. Federal Tax Credit

Formerly known as the Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC), this program was extended in 2022 and renamed the Residential Clean Energy Credit. Homeowners who install solar can claim a massive federal tax credit worth 30% of the gross system cost (including panels, related equipment, wiring, installation, permits, and fees). That means that if the gross system cost is $20,000, your federal tax credit would be a whopping $6,000!

2. Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)

SRECs are financial credits that you receive automatically for the excess energy your solar system produces and distributes back to the grid. These credits come in the form of deductions from your bills or can even be sold for monetary payment based on market value. This is a great way to make some passive income from your solar panels and increase your solar savings!

3. Property Tax Exemption

Homeowners with solar can receive a property tax exemption for the value of their solar system. This allows homeowners to increase their property values with solar, without increasing their taxes.

Step 2: Find Out if Your Home Qualifies for Free Solar

Depending on where you live, your home may qualify for several different solar savings or free install programs, each with unique advantages. We strongly recommend you speak with a local solar expert regarding your options before installation. If you begin an installation without applying for the right programs, you may lose out on massive savings!

Step 3: Get a State-Licensed Installation

Working with a state-licensed installer is the best way to ensure your solar system is installed safely, securely, and most importantly, legally. Setting up a cutting-edge solar system and connecting it with your utility company’s grid is no simple DIY project. Be sure only to evaluate options provided by licensed and insured solar panel installers.

Real Advice From Illinois Homeowners Who Went Solar

When it comes to going solar it’s important to find the right solar company to install your system. But don’t just take our word for it. Hear what other Illinois homeowners have to say about the importance of choosing the right installer when going solar:

• “If I had one piece of advice for anyone who wants to go solar it would be this: Get at least 3 different proposals and price quotes. Different installers have different preferences for system components so let them teach you why they recommend the equipment they propose. Also, I would choose a company that promises to take care of all of the paperwork and legwork that’s involved in permitting, utility company net metering and also filing for your Illinois Solar Energy Credits.” -Jeff Slepak from Buffalo Grove, IL

• “Get quotes from 2-3 experienced certified PV installers so that you understand what size system they recommend…” -Page Fitton from Elgin, IL

• “Choose a reputable company to do the installation.” -Richard Jones from Earlville, Illinois

How EcoGen America Can Help You Find The Right Installer

EcoGen America helps Illinois homeowners navigate the solar journey with confidence and clarity. Contact our team today to get personalized guidance, review your options and connect with top installers throughout Illinois!

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