SunSavvy

Solar Panel Cost in Illinois (2026)

In Illinois, residential electricity averages about 16¢/kWh with roughly 4.2 peak sun hours a day. Here's what solar looks like for a typical Illinois home using ~10,800 kWh a year.

System size
8.2 kW
~21 panels
Est. gross cost
$24,576
before incentives
Federal tax credit
- $7,373
30% ITC (verify)
Net cost
$17,203
after credit
Year-1 savings
$1,728
Payback
10 yrs

See how much you could save with a real quote

Get free solar quotes

Compare local installers — no obligation. Affiliate link.

Estimate your own Illinois numbers

Enter your real electric bill — the calculator is preset to Illinois.

Assumes $3.00/W installed and the 30% federal tax credit. Estimates only.

System size
8.5 kW
~22 panels
Est. gross cost
$25,600
before incentives
Federal tax credit
- $7,680
30% ITC
Net cost
$17,920
after credit
Year-1 savings
$1,800
Payback
10 yrs
25-year net savings
$43,445
after system cost, with rate escalation
Get free solar quotes

Incentives in Illinois

The biggest incentive is usually the federal solar tax credit — see ourtax credit guide and confirm the current percentage, since the rules have changed recently. Illinois may also offer state or utility incentives, rebates or performance payments; look up current programs in theDSIRE database.

What moves the number in Illinois

  • Your utility's rate and net metering — see how net metering works.
  • Roof orientation, shading and sun hours (4.2/day here on average).
  • Installer pricing — always compare several quotes.

Figures are estimates for education, not a quote. Electricity rates and sun hours are approximate state averages. Confirm with local installers.

Get free solar quotes

Compare local installers — no obligation.

Get free solar quotes