How To Choose the Right Solar Panel Company in Chicago
Switching to solar power is an important and very profitable step, as the opportunity to save on electricity is a big plus. According to a survey, 39% of homeowners are already interested in solar panel installation.
To ensure the maximum efficiency of the solar power system, it is worth getting to know solar panel companies in Chicago in detail. There are several key factors to consider when choosing the right solar installers and a reliable company to service them.
In this article, you will learn about the following:
- Types of panels
- Guarantees provided by companies for solar panels
- How to choose a solar installation company
Comparison of Types of Solar Panels
It’s worth figuring out how to select the right solar company. After all, it may be difficult to find the best among the large number of companies on the market in this area. Let’s look at the important selection criteria one by one.
First, you need to decide on the type of solar panels that will suit you if you live in Chicago:
- Monocrystalline solar panels convert more than 20% of sunlight and can produce from 320 to 375 watts, which makes them very popular among the population.
- Polycrystalline, which can absorb 18% of the light and produce between 240 and 300 watts, is less popular but cost-effective.
- Thin-film solar panels have up to 13% efficiency, but unlike the previous two types, they come in different sizes and do not have a standard power output.
Depending on the type of panel, its price will vary, the average cost is shown in the table.
| Panel type | Price per Watt | 6 kW system cost (materials only) |
| Monocrystalline | $1.00 – $1.50 | $6,000 – $9,000 |
| Polycrystalline | $0.90 – $1.50 | $5,400 – $6,000 |
| Thin film | $0.50 – $1.50 | $3,000 – $9,000 |
Chicago solar installers will help you choose a panel that suits you in all respects. But if you don’t know how to pick a solar company, fill out the form and get a free quote from the best solar companies in Chicago!
Be wise when selecting a contractor offering solar panel installation in Chicago, and read all the company’s characteristics.
Research on Types of Companies and Their Experience
Many companies on the market offer panel selection and installation. However, they all differ in their experience in this area and the scope of their services. Therefore, understanding the different types of solar companies near you is important for further cooperation.
| Type of companies | Characteristic |
| Manufacturers of solar equipment | Manufactures solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and other solar equipment. |
| Installers of solar batteries | They buy solar panels and their components from manufacturers and install and service them for customers. |
| Solar energy financial companies | Provides financing needed for solar equipment and installations. |
| Companies for the production of solar batteries | Draw up contracts sold to installers, dealers, and full-service providers. |
| Solar battery dealers | Have permission to sell solar batteries from a specific manufacturer. Sometimes, they have their installation team. |
| A provider of a full range of services | They help to switch completely to solar energy but do not produce equipment. They can sell panels and other components, and provide financing, and installation. |
| Vertically integrated companies | They perform all aspects, from the manufacture of solar panels to their installation on the house. |
The industry is evolving and attracting new professional solar power installers with different backgrounds, so choosing solar installers in Chicago can sometimes be difficult. But it is worth making sure of the quality of services and analyzing their experience in the market:
- Ask the company to show you their previous work
- Find information on the quantity and quality of work performed
- Find out how long the company has been on the market
So, we’ve covered how to pick a solar panel installer, but this is just one of the factors you should consider when selecting a company.
Evaluating Customer Reviews and Testimonials
On major platforms such as Google and Facebook, you can find real and relevant reviews of Chicago solar installers. Pay special attention to the following indicators:
- Quick response to inquiries
- Feedback from customers
- Further support from the company and online consultations
If the majority of reviews are positive, it inspires confidence in the company. It is also worth asking for recommendations from your friends, acquaintances, relatives, or neighbors who have already dealt with solar panel installation in Chicago. Find out their impressions and personal experiences of working with the company.
Choose a company that can meet all of your solar energy needs and offers the panels and system components you want or their equivalent.
Understand Financing and Payment Plans
Once you’ve decided on the type of panels you want and selected the best solar companies in Chicago, Illinois, it’s time to analyze the prices of services, the possibility of additional costs, and the calculation of the benefits you can receive from the state.
In 2023 alone, the number of solar PV installations in the US residential sector reached 6.8 gigawatts. This is almost 1 gigawatt in that year alone.
Most homeowners in Chicago who want to install a solar energy system are eligible for tax credits to offset the cost.
In addition, 26% of the cost of a solar system can be deducted from taxes owed or reimbursed through the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Depending on how many watts you need to power your home, the price of solar panels will range from $2.40 to $3.60 per watt, including installation.
It is important to consider all credits, incentives, and estimates for purchasing and installing solar panels to understand all the ongoing costs and to consider your financial capabilities.
Assessing Warranty and Maintenance Services
An essential condition for choosing solar panel companies in Chicago is the availability of a warranty for the quality of workmanship, as it can cover all possible problems and provide you with peace of mind for a long time. Contractors offer a wide range of warranties, from 3 to 25 years.
Choose a company that has been in the solar panel market for a long time. It is, therefore, worth asking for proof of business history.
Do regular maintenance so that the solar panel installation can check them for serviceability according to your contract, which guarantees that the panels will work for a long time.
Checking for Licensing and Certifications
Learn how to choose a solar company in Chicago with a license to ensure your project is successful. It is important to check whether the company you pick is licensed to install solar panels. After all, your contractor should not only be an expert in this field but also have a solar panel license and certificates.
You should find out whether they have passed the NABCEP exam and have experience in installing solar panels in Chicago. NABCEP is a standard certification program, so the best workers should be certified by it.
Companies with solar panel licenses hire qualified IBEW Local 134 electricians who have received the most up-to-date safety training and have mastered new technologies. An additional solar license is often required for the surrounding suburbs of Chicago. Take this information into account when looking for solar power installers.
The solar installer requirements are very high, as the contractor must have a solar license, experience in installation and maintenance, and must comply with all regulations set by the city of Chicago and its suburbs.
Read the recommendations on how to choose the best solar company and find a reliable contractor. This will play a crucial role in meeting your energy savings needs. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact SolarCC specialists for help.
FAQ
What should I look for in a company that produces solar panels?
It is worth asking about the company's experience in this field, as well as customer reviews, license, and payment terms.
How can customer reviews help you to choose a solar panel company?
Customer reviews are important when picking a company, as they help you understand how the company has proven itself among customers and whether it has positive recommendations, as negative comments scare off potential customers.
What financing options are typically offered by solar panel companies in Chicago?
They offer a federal investment tax credit (ITC) and a 25% tax credit for solar panels.
