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sunrun installation chicago illinois

Solar in Chicago

Why now is the time to go solar in Chicago
Programs like Illinois Shines reward energy production from solar systems, helping lower the cost of going solar for Chicago homeowners¹
Electricity prices in Chicago and across Illinois have risen significantly in recent years, making solar and battery storage a smart way to stabilize home energy costs²
Avoid rate hikes with reliable energy bills

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Considering going solar in Chicago?

For homeowners in Chicago and across the surrounding metro area, going solar is a smart way to take control of your home’s energy and protect yourself from rising electricity costs. Instead of relying entirely on power from the grid, a custom solar and battery storage system allows your home to generate electricity right on your roof while helping stabilize long-term energy expenses.

Every solar installation begins with a professional design tailored to your home. Chicago houses vary widely in roof shape, size, and orientation, so our experts carefully evaluate factors like roof pitch, available sunlight, and potential shading from nearby buildings or trees. This process helps ensure your solar system is sized and positioned to produce reliable energy throughout the year.

Solar panels can still generate electricity even during Chicago’s cloudy or snowy months. Modern solar technology captures both direct and indirect sunlight, allowing systems to continue producing power in a wide range of weather conditions. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, solar panels generate electricity in both sunny and overcast conditions as long as sunlight reaches the panels.

From permitting to installation, our team handles the entire process to help make going solar simple. Once your system is installed and producing power, you’ll have the confidence that comes from generating your own energy and pairing it with battery storage for additional resilience and control.

Chicago, go solar with confidence

Upgrade your home with solar panels and battery storage and get expert installation from America’s #1 provider.

Chicago area reviews and where to find us

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Marcus Chicago, IL

"Power outages can come at the most inopportune times. Super extreme heat, 30+ below zero, flood rains, it's never a good feeling. At least with my having a backup battery I know I have that sense of security that I can protect my home and my valuables."

Anil & Kate Chicago, IL

"The 25 year contract where they're guaranteeing service, I think is really like a relief, you're not going to get left high and dry with something on your roof that may, or may not be working as it should."

Bill M. East Peoria, IL (Google)

"[My rep] was absolutely fantastic! He presented all the information accurately and was available throughout the process for any questions! With rising electrical rates in Illinois, I am glad we have a protected rate going forward! We would highly recommend [our rep] and Sunrun for all your solar needs!"

Ed P. East Peoria, IL (Google)

"We have had Sunrun for 2 years now. We have had no problems, it works just like they said it would. They have been great answering any questions and the crew that came and installed were very nice and extremely knowledgeable. Our rate is locked so it does not matter if [our utility] tries raising their rates. We would highly recommend Sunrun to anyone thinking about going with solar!"

Go solar in Chicago

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Sunrun Subscription Plan vs. solar panels ownership

Our solar lease subscription plan offers predictable, affordable rates for as little as $0 down in upfront costs, or you could purchase solar panels outright.

Most popular

Sunrun Subscription Plan

Leasing solar panels

Benefits

  • Predictable, affordable payments
  • Protect against rising utility costs
  • Extended Sunrun warranties including workmanship and energy production guarantee for life of contract, 10 year roof penetration warranty, 24/7 system monitoring

Who maintains?

  • Sunrun owns and maintains
  • Plan transfers to new owners if you sell your home

Payments

  • $0 to little down
  • Locked in monthly solar lease

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Solar panels ownership

Purchasing solar panels

Benefits

  • Own your system outright
  • Protect against rising utility costs
  • Manufacturer's equipment warranties, 10 year workmanship guarantee, and 10 year roof penetration warranty

Who maintains?

  • I service and care for my system myself
  • Transfers to new owners if you sell your home

Payments

  • Full system cost (cash upfront)

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A home battery system is more crucial now than ever in Chicago

Power when you need it most

Chicago's unpredictable weather can lead to sudden outages. Store your solar energy to keep essential appliances running smoothly, regardless of grid conditions.

Keep your home running smoothly during outages

With Chicago experiencing more severe storms and temperature swings, a home battery ensures your heating, cooling, and critical systems remain operational during grid disruptions.

Control energy costs effectively

As Illinois electricity rates continue to rise, a battery system helps you reduce reliance on grid power during peak hours, potentially lowering your overall energy costs.

FAQs

Yes. Solar panels can still generate electricity during Chicago winters as long as sunlight reaches the panels. Cold temperatures can actually help solar panels operate more efficiently, and systems continue producing energy on sunny winter days even when outdoor temperatures are low. Light snow typically slides off panels once the sun hits them, allowing production to resume. According to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, solar panels generate electricity from both direct and indirect sunlight.

If you want to learn more about how solar performs in colder climates, read our guide.

Programs like Illinois Shines reward the renewable energy produced by solar systems through Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs). These programs are part of Illinois’ broader effort to expand clean energy under the state’s Renewable Portfolio Standard and support the growth of residential solar across the state.

Yes. Electricity prices in Illinois have increased in recent years, which means generating your own solar energy can help stabilize long-term home energy costs. By producing electricity on your roof, a solar system can reduce the amount of power your home needs to purchase from the grid. Some systems can also pair with battery storage to store excess solar energy for later use.

Most solar systems automatically shut off during grid outages for safety. However, if your system includes a home battery, you can keep essential appliances and devices running during an outage using stored solar energy. Battery storage can provide additional energy independence and help keep critical systems powered when the grid goes down.

Sources
1. Illinois Power Agency – Illinois Shines Program
2. U.S. Energy Information Administration – Illinois electricity price trends