The Case For
Delivered residential electric rates in Illinois commonly run 15–18¢ per kWh and have been climbing. A well-sized system offsetting most of your usage, plus Illinois Shines SREC income, typically pays back in about 6–10 years — on panels warranted for 25.
The 2025 Change: Net Billing
Since January 2025, new solar customers no longer get full retail credit for excess power sent to the grid — exports are credited at the supply rate. Solar still works, but using the power you generate (and sizing the system to your real usage) matters more than it used to.
When Solar Is NOT Worth It
- Heavy all-day shade
- Very low electric bills (under ~$75/month)
- A roof that needs replacing within 5 years (do the roof first)
- Planning to move within ~5 years
One More Protection
Illinois law (the Homeowners’ Energy Policy Statement Act) limits HOAs from banning rooftop solar outright — an HOA letter is not the end of the conversation.