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Solar Installation in Chicago, IL

Compare 5 local solar installation pros. Typical service: $18125–$25000.

Top Solar Installation Companies in Chicago

  1. 1.Priority Solar Installation

    4.9★ (61 reviews)

    4.9★ from 61 reviews

  2. 2.Ailey Solar

    4.8★ (63 reviews)

    4.8★ from 63 reviews

  3. 3.LB Solar Solution

    5.0★ (11 reviews)

    5.0★ from 11 reviews

  4. 4.SosaEcoSolar

    5.0★ (10 reviews)

    5.0★ from 10 reviews

  5. 5.GO Solar Top One

Solar Installation Cost in Chicago

Local ranges, adjusted for area wage and cost-of-living data.

ServiceTypical range in Chicago
6 kW system, installed$18,125–$25,000/job
8 kW system, installed$24,125–$33,375/job
10 kW system, installed$30,125–$41,750/job

Solar Installation prices in Chicago run about 25% above the national average, based on what this trade earns in the metro area — so neighbouring cities in the same metro see similar rates.

Quotes on this page come from 5 companies serving Chicago, rated 4.9★ on average across 145 customer reviews.

Chicago Climate & Seasonal Timing

What Chicago's weather means for scheduling solar installation.

Last spring frost
April 11
First fall frost
October 27
Annual precipitation
39.09"
Heating degree days
5,989
Cooling degree days
1,045
MonthLowHighPrecip
Jan18.2°31.5°2.06"
Feb21.7°35.8°1.94"
Mar30.9°46.8°2.72"
Apr41.7°59.2°3.64"
May51.6°70.2°4.13"
Jun62.1°79.9°4.06"
Jul67.5°84.2°4.01"
Aug66.2°82.1°3.99"
Sep57.5°75.3°3.31"
Oct45.7°62.8°3.24"
Nov34.5°48.6°3.42"
Dec22.7°35.3°2.57"

NOAA station data 5.14 miles from Chicago.

Permits & Regulations in IL

Permit typically required

  • Illinois has no statewide electrician or electrical contractor license; licensing is municipal
  • Chicago and many suburbs license electrical contractors and require a supervising electrician
  • Electrical work needs a permit from the local building department

License required: Local electrical contractor license (no statewide license)

Sources: www.chicago.gov

Solar Installation FAQs for Chicago

How much does solar cost in Chicago?

A 6 kW home solar system in Chicago typically runs $18125-$25000 installed, before any incentives.

How many solar installers serve Chicago?

We track 5 solar installation companies serving Chicago.

Is solar installation in Chicago more expensive than average?

Electrical installation labor in Chicago runs about +25% versus the national average.

Do I need a permit for solar panels in Chicago, IL?

In IL, Illinois has no statewide electrician or electrical contractor license; licensing is municipal. Rooftop solar in Chicago needs a building and electrical permit plus a utility interconnection agreement.

Is there a federal solar tax credit in 2026?

No for homeowners buying a system: the residential federal credit ended December 31, 2025, so a Chicago quote of $18125-$25000 is close to the out-of-pocket cost unless a state or utility rebate applies.

How much does air conditioning drive solar savings in Chicago?

Chicago sees about 1,045 cooling degree days a year; the more air conditioning a home runs, the more of a solar systems output it uses directly.

How many quotes should I get for solar in Chicago?

At least three; with 5 installers serving Chicago, compare the price per watt, panel and inverter models, and the workmanship warranty.

Does heat reduce solar output in Chicago?

Slightly; panels lose efficiency on days near 84F, so Chicago quotes should use temperature-adjusted production estimates.