Thinking about going solar? You’re not alone. Many vintage homeowners in Chicago wonder if solar panels on buildings will ruin their property’s look or if local rules will block installation.
This guide covers what you need to know – how to protect your home’s charm, obtain approval for the project, find financial incentives, and choose the right solar panel service. By the end, you’ll know how to make the right choice and harness green energy without losing your home’s character.
You can do so if you comply with local preservation regulations.
Here’s the upside: Chicago is now making an effort to set up solar panels on buildings without losing its classic aesthetics. Solar power hasn’t caught total market attention yet, but it’s expected to grow rapidly based on the statistics.
Source: Solar Energy Industries Association
Examples:
These examples clearly show that solar panels can be seamlessly integrated into vintage buildings.
Mounting solar panels on buildings, such as a century-old home, is possible but involves additional risks. Here’s why:
| Aesthetic Concerns and Mounting Challenges | Preservation regulations mandate that solar panels be concealed from the roadside. Also, delicate roofing materials require precise installation by professionals. Aged roofs may need additional support before panel installation. |
| Regulatory Issues and Getting Approval | Preservation board permits can be time-consuming. HOA regulations may restrict solar power setups, even on non-historic homes. |
| High Installation Costs | Old structures may need reinforcement. Costs may rise due to specialized techniques or necessary electrical system upgrades. |
However, don’t worry; you can overcome such challenges with the help of a solar expert and some forward planning.
Looking for the right solar panel system in Chicago? Don’t waste another second — get your free solar quote right away!
So let’s guide you through the three key problems and what to do about each.
For homeowners in Chicago’s historic districts, installing solar panels for homes involves thorough planning to preserve the building’s character and its fragile structures.
Several neighborhood communities, such as the Village of Oak Park, have detailed policies to guide you in doing precisely that. These specifications suggest that panels be installed in not-so-well-seen locations, such as back roof slopes or behind dormers, and that design installations be readily reversed with no destruction of original details.
Apart from maintaining the original charm, there are challenges associated with installation risks, as outdated materials can easily get damaged and require special care. Old wiring, such as a knob-and-tube system, may also contribute to this list of concerns, making the process even more complicated.
However, the following cases prove that everything’s possible:
This is evidence that historic buildings with solar panels can be pleasing to the eye and functional. Once more, only if you observe the guidelines, plan carefully, and use a non-invasive mounting system.
All alterations that involve protected or historic buildings require permission from a special commission or an architectural review board. The process for obtaining approval to mount solar panels on buildings typically involves the following steps:
Obtaining approval is a time-consuming and nerve-racking process, which sometimes involves attending a public hearing. To move forward more quickly with the project, consider hiring a reputable solar panel service with experience in this field.
Get your free solar quote and take the first step toward going solar!
It can be costly to install solar panels on buildings, particularly historic homes. But don’t be put off by the cost.
A number of financial incentives make solar power more affordable in Chicago, Illinois.
Here are some programs to be familiar with:
| Incentive Name | Description |
| Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) | Write off 30% of your cost of solar installation from your federal taxes – a huge savings potential. |
| Illinois Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) | Earn credits depending on how much solar electricity your system generates, generating ongoing income. |
| Historic Preservation Tax Credits | Get a 20% credit on certified rehabilitation projects, eligible to be paired with the ITC. |
| Local Grants and Low-Interest Loans | A few cities provide money or low-interest loans to finance solar upgrades on historic properties. |
For perspective: A standard 5 kW solar system installed in Chicago will cost approximately $14,600 before incentives. Once the federal tax credit is factored in, the cost is roughly $10,200.
Most homeowners recoup their investment within 7 to 10 years, primarily through reduced utility costs and increased home valuation.
If you are interested in knowing what incentives you are eligible for, simply inquire with your solar panel provider. They can assist you in navigating the process and saving you money.
And finally, the right solar panel company will help you tackle the three issues mentioned above. Not every solar provider can install solar panels on buildings like historic homes. But the right provider can address your dilemmas and alleviate your anxieties. A trusted expert in historic solar installations will:
With historic-savvy solar panel service, you’re bound to get the perks of going solar without compromising your home’s heritage.
Once again, solar panels can be mounted on historic buildings without compromising their traditional character. It is all about respecting local guidelines and choosing a reputable service.
With solar power on buildings, you get to increase your home’s resale price, minimize your carbon footprint, and be part of the new wave of environmentally friendly living.
Are you ready to switch? Here’s how to get started:
Power your home without sacrificing its style. Request a free solar quote now!