Solar Panel Savings in Mattoon, IL

Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Mattoon, Illinois. Based on 4 peak sun hours/day and 13.1¢/kWh average electricity rate.

4

Peak Sun Hours/Day

13.1¢

Avg Rate (¢/kWh)

13.8 yr

Payback Period

$31k

25-Year Savings

Mattoon Solar Overview

Population:17,053
Sunny Days/Year:198
Avg Temperature:51°F
Solar Penetration:5%
Utility Company:ComEd
Net Metering:Available

Calculate Your Mattoon Solar Savings

3 kW15 kW

Mattoon average: $118/mo

South-facing roofs produce the most energy

Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup

Annual Production

7,008

kWh/year

Annual Savings

$919

per year

Net System Cost

$12,390

after 30% ITC

Payback Period

13.5 yr

break-even time

25-Year Total Savings

$31,391

Monthly Savings

$77

Federal Tax Credit

$5,310

Cumulative Savings vs System Cost

$0k$8k$16k$25k$33kYr 0Yr 5Yr 10Yr 15Yr 20Yr 25System CostBreak-even
Cumulative Savings System Cost

Cost Breakdown

ItemMattoonNational Avg
Gross System Cost (6kW)$17,700$17,100
Federal Tax Credit (30%)-$5,310-$5,130
Net System Cost$12,390$11,970
Cost Per Watt$2.95/W$2.85/W

Solar Potential in Mattoon

Sun Hours vs National Average

4 hrs
4.5 hrs

Mattoon gets 11% less sun than the national average, but high-efficiency panels compensate.

Climate Advantages

  • 198 sunny days per year
  • Average temperature: 51°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
  • Average roof size: 1,761 sq ft — enough for a 97-panel system

Mattoon Solar Incentives & Programs

Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $17,700 system, that's a $5,310 credit. Valid through 2032.

Illinois State Incentives

Adjustable Block Program; SREC market.

Net Metering — ComEd

ComEd offers net metering in Mattoon. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.

Environmental Impact in Mattoon

2.9

Tons CO2 Offset/Year

48

Equivalent Trees Planted

0.7

Homes Worth of Energy

Based on 7,008 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.

Solar Energy in Mattoon, Illinois

Mattoon, Illinois receives an average of 4 peak sun hours per day, offering adequate solar resources for homeowners looking to reduce their electricity bills. With electricity rates averaging 13.1¢ per kWh from ComEd, below the national average, but with rates rising 2-3% annually, the long-term savings are still meaningful.

A typical 6kW solar system in Mattoon produces approximately 7,008 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $919 annually. The system pays for itself in about 13.5 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 12+ years of the system's warranty life.

Mattoon has a solar penetration rate of 5% — showing growing adoption of residential solar, with significant room for expansion. The cost of living index of 94.8 (national average: 100) reflects a lower cost of living, keeping installation costs competitive.

Other Cities in Illinois

Frequently Asked Questions

How much do solar panels cost in Mattoon, IL?

The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Mattoon is approximately $17,700 before incentives ($2.95/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $12,390. Adjustable Block Program; SREC market.

How many peak sun hours does Mattoon get?

Mattoon, IL receives an average of 4 peak sun hours per day and approximately 198 sunny days per year. This is near the national average, providing good conditions for residential solar panels.

What is the solar payback period in Mattoon?

The average solar payback period in Mattoon is approximately 13.8 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $31,391.

Does Mattoon have net metering?

Yes, Mattoon has access to net metering through ComEd. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.

Is solar worth it in Mattoon, IL?

Yes, solar is a solid investment in Mattoon. While the 13.8-year payback is moderate, you'll still save $31,391 over 25 years. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.

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