Solar Panels in Illinois2026 Cost Guide & Incentives
Average cost, state incentives, payback estimates, and how to find certified installers in Illinois.
$18,000–$30,000
Avg system cost
$12,600–$21,000
After 30% ITC
4.4 hrs/day
Peak sun hours
$0.158/kWh
Avg rate
Is Solar Worth It in Illinois?
Based on a home with a $150/month electric bill in Illinois
Est. system size
6.5 kW
Gross cost
$18,926
Federal tax credit
−$5,678
Net cost
$13,248
Year-1 savings
$1,800
20-year savings
$45,911
Estimated payback: 7.4 years — then 12 years of free electricity.
* Estimates assume $2.90/W installed, 92% solar offset, and 3% annual electricity rate inflation. Get an installer quote to confirm your actual savings.
Illinois Solar Incentives & Policies
Federal
Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30%
of total system cost — off your federal tax bill
Available through 2032
Illinois State
State Incentive
Illinois Shines SREC program — earn credits sold to utilities
Additional Illinois Solar Policies
Net Metering: Available — excess energy credited to your bill
Property Tax Exemption: Solar system value exempt from property taxes
Sales Tax Exemption: Solar equipment exempt from state sales tax
Solar Installation Cost in Illinois by System Size
| System size | Gross cost | After 30% ITC | Year-1 savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,272,800 | $8,590,960 | $1,167,241/yr |
| 7 kW | $17,181,920 | $12,027,344 | $1,634,137/yr |
| 9 kW | $22,091,040 | $15,463,728 | $2,101,033/yr |
| 12 kW | $29,454,720 | $20,618,304 | $2,801,378/yr |
* Costs based on $2.90/W national average. Illinois installer pricing may vary ±15%.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Solar in Illinois
How much do solar panels cost in Illinois?
Solar installation in Illinois typically costs $18,000–$30,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit, most homeowners pay $12,600–$21,000 net.
Is solar worth it in Illinois?
Yes — Illinois homeowners benefit from 4.4 average peak sun hours per day. The 30% federal ITC combined with illinois shines srec program — earn credits sold to utilities make the financial case strong for most homeowners.
What state incentives are available for solar in Illinois?
Illinois Shines SREC program — earn credits sold to utilities. On top of state incentives, all Illinois homeowners qualify for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Your solar system is also exempt from property tax assessment. Solar equipment is exempt from sales tax in ${s.name}.
How long is the payback period for solar in Illinois?
Based on Illinois's average electricity rate of $0.158/kWh and 4.4 peak sun hours, most homeowners see payback in 7.4–10 years. Systems then produce free electricity for 15–20+ more years.
Does Illinois have net metering?
Yes — Illinois has a net metering policy that credits your utility bill for excess electricity your system sends back to the grid. This significantly improves your ROI.