Solar Cost Breakdown for Chicago
Here's what a typical 6.0 kW solar installation costs in Chicago, IL in 2026, based on current market pricing and live utility data from ComEd.
| Cost Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6.0 kW) | $19,200 | Before any incentives |
| Federal ITC (30%) | -$5,760 | Applied to tax return (Form 5695) |
| Net Cost to Homeowner | $13,440 | After federal tax credit |
| Monthly Loan Payment (25yr @ 5.99%) | ~$86/mo | $0 down solar loan |
| Monthly Bill Savings | ~$102/mo | Based on ComEd 16.1¢/kWh |
Solar Production in Chicago
Chicago averages 4.4 peak sun hours per day — moderate for solar energy production. A 6.0 kW system here will generate approximately:
| Timeframe | Estimated Production | Value @ 16.1¢/kWh |
|---|---|---|
| Daily (avg) | 21.1 kWh | $3.4 |
| Monthly (avg) | 634 kWh | $102 |
| Annual | 7,709 kWh | $1,241 |
| 25-Year Total | 192,720 kWh | $44,000 |
IL Solar Incentives
Homeowners in Chicago, IL can stack multiple incentives to reduce the net cost of solar significantly:
| Incentive | Value | How to Claim |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) | 30% of system cost = $5,760 | IRS Form 5695 at tax time |
| IL SREC Program | Varies | Through installer or IL tax return |
| Property Tax Exemption | Solar value excluded from property tax | Automatic in most IL counties |
| Net Metering (ComEd) | Credit for excess solar exported to grid | Applied automatically to monthly bill |
💡 Total potential savings: Between the 30% federal ITC ($5,760) and state incentives in IL, many Chicago homeowners reduce their net system cost by 35–45% before financing.
ComEd: Your Local Rate
Your Chicago utility provider is ComEd, currently charging 16.1¢ per kWh (source: EIA, June 2026). This rate determines how valuable solar is for your home — higher rates mean faster payback.
US electricity rates have increased an average of 3.4% per year since 2010. If ComEd's rate continues rising, your solar savings will grow each year — meaning real payback is often faster than static estimates suggest.
| Year | Projected Rate | Annual Solar Savings (6.0 kW) |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 (now) | 16.1¢/kWh | $1,241 |
| 2031 (+5yr) | 19.0¢/kWh | $1,467 |
| 2036 (+10yr) | 22.5¢/kWh | $1,734 |
| 2046 (+20yr) | 31.4¢/kWh | $2,422 |
Get Your Exact Chicago Solar Quote
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Calculate My Chicago Solar Cost →Compare Nearby Cities
See how solar costs compare in cities near Chicago: