Are Solar Panels Worth It in Illinois? Data-Backed Analysis
~
Maybe
Solar may be worth it in Illinois depending on your situation.
The Numbers
Average System Cost
$149,730
21.7 kW system
Federal Residential Credit (2026)
$0
No new credit after Dec. 31, 2025
Observed Records
61,031
90% residential
Factors in Favor
- ✓61,031 installations demonstrate strong market adoption
- ✓90% residential - strong homeowner adoption
Things to Consider
- !Above-average installation cost ($6.90/W vs national $4.18/W)
Illinois vs National Average
| Metric | Illinois | National |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per Watt | $6.90 | $4.18 |
| Total Installations | 61,031 | 3,426,466 |
| Total Capacity | 1,326 MW | - |
Frequently Asked Questions
The observed average implies a system cost of approximately $149,730 (avg 21.7 kW system at $6.90/W). This is a historical dataset estimate, not a current installer quote.
New residential systems placed in service in 2026 do not qualify for the federal Residential Clean Energy Credit under current IRS guidance. State, local and utility programs may still apply; verify current eligibility with each program administrator.
Illinois has 61,031 solar installations, showing strong market adoption. Whether solar is worth it depends on your specific situation, electricity usage, and roof orientation.
Source: LBNL Tracking the Sun, U.S. Department of Energy, EIA. Costs and savings are modeled from historical averages and may vary. New 2026 residential installations receive no federal Residential Clean Energy Credit under current IRS guidance.