Solar has become a practical home upgrade in Illinois, paving a path to lower electric bills and more resilient power. State and utility incentives have shortened the payback period to an all-time low.
However, your solar system’s performance depends on how well it fits your home. Factors such as roof condition, shading, service panel capacity, and future plans like EV charging or battery storage all play a key role in the design.
This guide breaks down the key considerations for installing solar panels in Illinois so you can shop with confidence.
Check out Brda’s comprehensive solar buyer’s guide for more detailed cost considerations, installment procedures, and key equipment descriptions.
Why Go Solar in Illinois
Supportive state policy, modern utility programs, and strong warm-weather production make a favorable solar market for Illinois.
The Future Energy Jobs Act established sustainability goals and support for programs that improve solar affordability. Electric utilities operating in Illinois are also required to publish clear rules for connecting your solar system to the grid to get bonus incentives.
Most annual production comes from spring through early fall. An Illinois solar system’s best benefit is on hot summer days. Solar panels make the most of that sunshine, lowering your cooling expenses. The result is lower grid use in hot months and steady savings across the year.
Though snow and clouds reduce winter output, well-designed systems still produce on clear days. Snow usually slides off tilted panels once the sun comes out or the wind picks up.
Heavy storms can add weight and reduce output for a short time, which is why correct racking, tilt, and load design are important.
What to Expect From the Solar Installation Process
The exact order of these steps may vary depending on your project, but this is the general procedure for installation and power grid connection.
1) Consultation and site review.
Your solar journey starts with a phone consultation with our solar sales representative. On this call, we’ll discuss your energy goals—whether it’s lowering your bill, adding backup power, or making a sustainable choice—and review your electric bill to design the right system for your home.
Once you’re ready to move forward, a licensed solar electrician will visit your property to inspect shade coverage, your main service panel, and other site details to finalize your system design.
2) Design and proposal.
Using a solar design software, we’ll create a custom system layout for your home. This design shows system size, expected power output, and projected savings. Once finalized, we submit it to your local county and to Ameren for review and approval. This ensures your system meets all regulations and is cleared for installation.
3) Permits and utility paperwork.
Your electrician handles local permits and schedules the utility connection. Timelines vary by city, utility, and season.
4) Installation and inspections.
Your installer mounts the racking, sets panels, runs wiring, and connects the system to your electrical panel. A local inspector signs off before utility approval.
5) Permission to operate.
The utility activates your solar account and grants permission to operate. You start earning credits after this step under the current rules.
6) Incentive enrollment.
Eligible programs are filed by your installer or an approved vendor.
Pro tip: Keep copies of all utility confirmations and your final invoice for tax time.
Illinois Solar Incentives and How They Work
Incentives at several levels work together to lower Illinois’ solar costs. Exact amounts change over time, so treat the items below as a quick reference guide and confirm terms before you sign.
Federal Residential Clean Energy Credit.
Most homeowners can claim a federal tax credit worth 30% of their installation costs. You claim it when you file your return using IRS Form 5695.
Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program).
The state buys renewable energy credits (RECs) based on your solar system’s expected annual production, quickening the payback period on your investment.
Payments flow through vendors approved under the Illinois Power Agency.
Export credits for excess solar.
New installations can earn bill credits for surplus energy sent to the grid. The credit structure depends on when your system is approved and your utility’s current tariff. Your proposal should factor this into its financial projections.
Ameren publishes solar and interconnection resources. New projects can earn bill credits under each utility’s current rules.
Smart inverter and storage incentives.
Some utilities (including Ameren) offer rebates for qualifying smart inverters and storage batteries. These programs have technical settings and enrollment rules for your installer to follow.
Local tax considerations
In many areas, going solar comes with added benefits like property tax exemptions, sales tax reductions, or other local incentives. We’ll guide you through what’s available in your community and provide the resources you need to claim these benefits, so you can maximize your savings with less hassle.
Finding a Solar Installer in Illinois
Choose a contractor who will be around to service the system, not just sell it. Look for the following green flags:
Licensed, insured, and local.
Confirm they pull permits under their own license and have recent projects near you.
Clear scope and equipment.
Look for professionals who provide consultation in plain language. They should provide specific estimates on your system size, incentive opportunities, and total costs. Ask about workmanship guarantees and equipment warranties.
Warranties and service.
Get workmanship terms in writing, including response times and what level (if any) of ongoing maintenance is available.
Utility and incentive experience.
Your installer should know your utility’s interconnection steps and the Illinois Shines enrollment process.
Right-sized design.
A good design reflects property constraints, shade, battery storage needs, and future plans for electrical installations.
For a local partner you can trust, Brda Electric combines years of hands-on experience with a commitment to guiding you through every step of your solar and electrical projects. Our team works closely with you, providing clear explanations, honest advice, and support you can rely on long after the installation is complete.
Timeline: How Long the Average Solar Install Takes
Every project is unique, but most follow this range:
Consultation to signed proposal:
1–2 weeks, depending on questions and property analysis.
Design, permits, utility applications:
3–8 weeks, based on local regulations and utility response time.
On-site installation:
Less than a week for most systems.
Inspections and permission to operate:
1–4 weeks, based on your local property authority and utility provider.
Incentive enrollment and confirmations:
Begins during or after official approval to operate is filed, then continues per program rules.
Weather, roof repairs, or busy seasons can add time. Ask your electrician for a clear project timeline.
Ready to Go Solar?
Brda Electric designs and installs code-compliant systems across Southern Illinois. We handle permits, utility paperwork, and incentive enrollment so you can focus on enjoying the benefits of your new system.
Start the conversation! We’ll help you get started and see the project through to your satisfaction.
