Illinois Solar Panel Savings Calculator

Illinois Solar Panel Savings Overview

Illinois receives an average of 4.2 peak sun hours per day, providing a solid foundation for residential solar energy. With electricity rates averaging 15.7¢ per kWh — near the national average — solar offers competitive savings. The typical Illinois homeowner with a 6kW system can expect to save approximately $1,650 per year.

Solar Energy Production in Illinois

A standard 6kW residential solar panel system in Illinois produces approximately 7,358 kWh per year. This accounts for a system efficiency factor of 80%, which includes panel degradation, inverter losses, and temperature effects. While 4.2 peak sun hours is modest compared to sunbelt states, modern high-efficiency panels can still produce meaningful energy savings in Illinois.

Illinois Electricity Rates and Solar Context

The average residential electricity rate in Illinois is 15.7¢ per kWh according to EIA data. This rate is near the national average. Combined with Illinois's solar resources, homeowners can expect a payback period of about 9 years. With utility rates increasing annually, your solar savings grow each year.

Illinois Solar Incentive Programs

Adjustable Block Program (solar incentives). SRECs (~$70-80 each). Federal 30% ITC. Property tax exemption. All Illinois residents are eligible for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which reduces the cost of a solar system by 30% of the total installed price. Illinois also offers full retail net metering, allowing homeowners to earn credits for excess solar energy sent back to the grid.

Net Metering in Illinois

Illinois has full retail net metering, which is a significant financial benefit for solar homeowners. Under full retail net metering, you receive credit at the full retail electricity rate for every kilowatt-hour of excess solar energy you export to the grid. This is the most favorable policy for solar homeowners.

Best Cities for Solar in Illinois

The best cities for solar panels in Illinois include Chicago, Aurora, Naperville, Rockford, Springfield. Solar production can vary by location within the state due to differences in cloud cover, local shading, and microclimates. Southern-facing roofs with minimal shading produce the most energy. Homeowners in Chicago and Aurora can typically expect production close to the state average of 4.2 peak sun hours per day.

How Illinois Compares to Neighboring States

Compared to neighboring states, Illinois (15.7¢/kWh, 4.2 sun hours) has comparable sun exposure and has higher electricity rates, making solar more attractive. See how solar savings compare in Wisconsin, Iowa, and Missouri.