Illinois has a number of solar incentives available to help residents save money on their solar energy systems. Here are some of the incentives available to Illinois home and business owners:
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Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC):
Homeowners that qualify for the Solar ITC can take advantage of a tax credit for 30% of the cost of installed solar panels. Battery storage can also qualify for the Residential Clean Energy Credit.
Illinois’ SREC incentive: the Adjustable Block Program:
Under the Adjustable Block Program, also known as Illinois Shines, you can earn one solar renewable energy certificate (SREC) for each megawatt hour (MWh) of electricity your solar system produces over 15 years. For the average residential system, this comes out to more than $10,000 in additional savings.
Net Metering:
Net metering in Illinois is a billing arrangement for solar panel owners that credits them for excess electricity they generate. When your solar panels produce more energy than your home consumes, the surplus is fed back into the grid and credited to your account, effectively spinning your meter backward. These credits can then be used to offset future electricity consumption, resulting in lower energy bills. Net metering promotes the efficient use of solar power, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and supports the transition to clean energy. By participating in net metering, you not only save money but also contribute to a more sustainable energy future while helping maintain grid stability in Illinois.
ComEd commercial solar rebates:
ComEd, one of IL’s largest utility companies, provides rebates for commercial and industrial (C&I) customers to help decrease the out-of-pocket costs of installing solar. If you’re a ComEd customer and install solar on your business, you’re eligible for $250 per kilowatt (kW) of installed solar power. To receive the rebate, your solar panel system cannot be larger than 2,000 kW in capacity.
Property Tax Exemptions for Solar:
Illinois offers a property tax exemption for renewable energy systems, including solar installations. This exemption means that the added value of your solar panels will not increase your property taxes.
Further information and programs can be found at the Programs.Dsireusa.org
