Is solar worth it in Illinois?

With an average payback period of 11.6 years and 25-year savings of $30,675, solar panels in Illinois are a solid investment.

How much do solar panels cost in Illinois?

The average cost of a 6kW residential solar system in Illinois is $14,200 before incentives and tax credits.

How much can I save with solar panels in Illinois?

Homeowners in Illinois save an average of $1,227 per year with solar panels, totaling approximately $30,675 over 25 years.

Solar Panel ROI in Illinois

Is solar worth it in IL?

2.2x ROI Score

11.6 yrs Payback Period

$1,227 Annual Savings

Key Solar Metrics for Illinois

Solar Irradiance	4.86 kWh/m²/day
Estimated Annual Production (6kW system)	8,293 kWh
Average Electricity Rate	$0.148/kWh
Average System Cost	$14,200
Estimated Annual Savings	$1,227/year
Payback Period	11.6 years
25-Year Savings	$30,675

Illinois vs National Average

Solar Irradiance 4.86 kWh/m²/day -2% vs national avg

National Avg Irradiance 5.12 kWh/m²/day baseline

Payback Period 11.6 years Slower than average

How We Calculated This

Our solar ROI calculations use data from the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) PVWatts API, which models solar energy production based on location-specific solar irradiance, weather patterns, and panel tilt angles. We assume a standard 6kW residential system with south-facing panels at optimal tilt.

Electricity rates are sourced from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) and represent state-level residential averages. Annual savings are calculated by multiplying estimated production by the local electricity rate. The payback period divides system cost by annual savings. The ROI score represents total 25-year savings divided by system cost.

These estimates do not include federal tax credits (currently 30% ITC), state incentives, SRECs, or utility rebates, which can significantly reduce the effective payback period. Actual results vary based on roof orientation, shading, local weather, and utility rate changes.

Compare with Nearby States

Wisconsin 11.7 yr payback $1,215/yr savings Iowa 12.4 yr payback $1,110/yr savings Missouri 13.3 yr payback $1,022/yr savings Kentucky 14.1 yr payback $934/yr savings Indiana 12.8 yr payback $1,090/yr savings

Solar Outlook for Illinois

Illinois's solar irradiance of 4.86 kWh/m²/day is 2% below the national average. With electricity at $0.148/kWh, the 11.6-year payback is moderate — though incentives and tax credits can significantly shorten it.

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