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Elizabeth Martinez

5 Tips for Saving Money with Solar Panels in Illinois

Updated: Dec 2

Published on November 18, 2024

By Elizabeth, Marketing Director at Sige Solar






1. Illinois Shines Program: Maximize Your Solar Savings


The Illinois Shines program (also known as the Adjustable Block Program) is one of the best ways to reduce the cost of installing solar panels in Illinois. This state-run initiative incentivizes homeowners who go solar, making it easier to switch to clean, renewable energy.


  • How It Works: When you install solar panels, you generate Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs), which can be sold to utility companies. The proceeds from these SRECs can cover up to 40% of the cost of your solar system.

  • Why Choose Sige Solar? At Sige Solar, we handle all the paperwork and applications for the Illinois Shines program, so you can rest easy knowing you’ll receive your rebate payment. The process is straightforward, however the incentive check typically takes an average of 18 months to arrive. The timeline may vary and could be shorter or longer depending on various factors.

Reference: Illinois Shines Program Overview, Illinois Power Agency.


2. Federal Solar Tax Credit: Save Big on Your Solar System


The Federal Solar Tax Credit (also called the Investment Tax Credit, or ITC) allows you to deduct 30% of the cost of your solar system from your federal taxes. This includes the cost of panels, inverters, battery storage, and installation.


  • How It Works: If your solar system costs $20,000, you could receive a $6,000 tax credit directly applied to your tax bill. This substantial tax break makes solar energy even more affordable.

  • Maximize Your Savings with Sige Solar: At Sige Solar, we help you navigate the complexities of the tax credit process to ensure you receive every benefit available to you.

Reference: U.S. Department of Energy, Solar Energy Technologies Office.


3. Net Metering: Save Money by Sending Power Back to the Grid


Net metering is another key benefit for Illinois homeowners with solar panels. It allows you to send any excess energy your solar system produces back to the grid. In return, you earn credits that can be used when your solar system isn’t generating enough power, such as at night.


  • Benefit: Every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of excess energy you send back to the grid gets credited to your account, which helps lower your electric bills. This makes solar even more cost-effective by ensuring you get paid for the energy you produce.

Reference: Illinois Commerce Commission, Net Metering Policy.


4. Long-Term Financial Benefits of Solar Panels in Illinois


One of the biggest advantages of solar energy is long-term savings. The average solar panel system lasts 25-30 years, meaning you'll enjoy decades of free, clean energy. With rising electricity prices, locking in lower energy costs today will save you tens of thousands of dollars over the lifespan of your system.


  • Sige Solar’s Expertise: With over 15 years of experience, Sige Solar ensures that your solar system is designed for maximum energy production and savings. Our team handles everything from installation to paperwork, ensuring a hassle-free process.

Reference: Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, Electricity Rate Trends.


5. Why Sige Solar? Local Experts with 15 Years of Experience


Choosing Sige Solar means partnering with a trusted, local solar provider. We’ve been serving Illinois homeowners for over 15 years, offering top-tier service without the need for subcontractors. We handle the entire solar installation process, ensuring that your system is installed with care and precision.


  • Flexible Payment Options: We offer a variety of financing options to fit your budget, including affordable monthly payment plans. This makes going solar more accessible than ever.


Conclusion: Take Advantage of Solar Savings with Sige Solar


Thanks to Illinois solar incentives, federal tax credits, and net metering, now is the best time to make the switch to solar energy. At Sige Solar, we’re committed to helping you save money and reduce your carbon footprint by providing high-quality, affordable solar energy solutions.

Contact us today to learn more about how you can start saving with solar energy and take advantage of all the incentives available in Illinois. Together, we’ll make your home more energy-efficient and sustainable.


Bibliography


  1. Illinois Shines Program Overview. Illinois Power Agency. [Link to Illinois Power Agency’s Illinois Shines page]

  2. Solar Energy Technologies Office. U.S. Department of Energy. [Link to Department of Energy resource on ITC]

  3. Net Metering Policy. Illinois Commerce Commission. [Link to Illinois Commerce Commission’s Net Metering Policy]

  4. Electricity Rate Trends. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. [Link to report on electricity rates]



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