Solar by state › Illinois
Is solar worth it in Illinois? (2026 numbers)
For a typical Illinois home with a $119/month electric bill, a 6 kW system costs about $18,100 before incentives and saves about $1,080 in year one, paying back in roughly 15 years if you buy it. The federal 25D credit ended for systems installed after 2025, so many Illinois homeowners now compare cash purchase against a lease or PPA.
Updated 2026-10-20. Figures are estimates being refreshed against EIA and NREL data. See methodology.
Net metering: Net metering (supply-only credit since 2025)
New systems receive credit for the supply portion of the bill, and the Illinois Shines program pays for renewable energy credits up front.
Incentives still available
- Illinois Shines (SREC) payments
- ComEd and Ameren distributed generation rebates
- Property tax special assessment
Major utilities
ComEd, Ameren Illinois
Solar by city in Illinois
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Frequently asked questions
Is solar worth it in Illinois in 2026?
For a typical Illinois home with a $119/month electric bill, a 6 kW system costs about $18,100 before incentives and saves about $1,080 in year one, paying back in roughly 15 years if you buy it. The federal 25D credit ended for systems installed after 2025, so many Illinois homeowners now compare cash purchase against a lease or PPA.
How does net metering work in Illinois?
Net metering (supply-only credit since 2025): New systems receive credit for the supply portion of the bill, and the Illinois Shines program pays for renewable energy credits up front.
What solar incentives are left in Illinois?
The 30% federal homeowner credit (25D) ended for systems installed after December 31, 2025. State and local programs still include: Illinois Shines (SREC) payments; ComEd and Ameren distributed generation rebates; Property tax special assessment. Leases and PPAs can still pass through a federal business credit claimed by the system owner.
Should I add a battery in Illinois?
Because exported solar earns less than retail in Illinois, a battery that stores daytime solar for evening use usually improves savings, and it also gives you outage backup.