Solar in Illinois

Key Solar Metrics

Avg Electricity Rate

17.7¢/kWh

Solar Production Potential

4.6 peak sun hours

Annual Production

879 kWh/kW

Net Metering

Incentive Programs

4 active programs

Top Incentive

Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program)

Permitting

Mixed

Major Utilities

Commonwealth Edison Co

Solar Landscape in Illinois

Illinois's electricity market includes both investor-owned utilities and cooperative/municipal providers. Utility-specific solar programs vary by provider. Residential customers should check with their specific utility provider for available solar incentive programs, interconnection requirements, and export credit rates.

Permitting

Illinois follows local jurisdiction permitting for residential solar installations. Permitting requirements and timelines vary by county and municipality. Homeowners should contact their local building department for specific permit requirements, fees, and inspection schedules. Some jurisdictions in Illinois have adopted streamlined solar permitting processes to reduce installation timelines.

Get Your Personalized Estimate

See what solar looks like for your specific situation with our calculator.

Solar Incentives & Rebates

Some incentive data is provisional and subject to verification. Programs may change — check official sources before making decisions.

State Programs

Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program)

Illinois Shines provides REC payments for solar generation over 15 years. Payment rate varies by block, system size, and utility territory. Approximately $70/MWh for residential.

Per kWh

$0.07/kWh

Illinois Solar for All

Low-income solar incentive program providing fully subsidized solar for qualifying households. Part of the Climate & Equitable Jobs Act.

TPO Eligible

Illinois Net Metering

Illinois net metering provides credits at a rate based on utility-specific avoided cost. ComEd and Ameren customers eligible.

Illinois Property Tax Exemption for Solar

Special assessment valuation for solar energy systems — assessed value of solar improvement is limited.

TPO EligibleProvisional

Illinois Net Metering

Policy Type: Net Metering
Credit Type: Avoided Cost
Annual Credit Rollover: Yes
Effective Date: January 1, 2025

View source

Run the Numbers for Illinois

Solar in Illinois costs $3.07–$3.61 per watt

National average: $3.36/W

See how much you could save