Solar incentives in Illinois
Federal tax credits, Illinois rebates, utility programs, and Net metering (ICC-regulated, ComEd and Ameren Illinois) net metering - everything that lowers your solar payback.
Incentives & rebates
Last verified:
Federal solar tax credit (Section 25D, ended for 2026 purchases)
The 30 percent federal residential tax credit (Section 25D) applied through December 31, 2025 and is not available for a purchased home system placed in service after that date, so most 2026 homeowner purchases cannot claim it. If you go solar through a lease or a power purchase agreement, the provider may still claim the business version of the credit (Section 48E) and pass part of the value through in your rate. Confirm your eligibility with your installer and a tax advisor.
Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program)
Illinois Shines is the state-administered solar incentive program run by the Illinois Power Agency. Under the Distributed Generation track, Approved Vendors receive Renewable Energy Credit (REC) payments from utilities and may pass those savings on to homeowners through reduced equipment or installation costs. The program was expanded by the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (2021), which created new capacity blocks and reopened the program. When shopping installers, ask each vendor for their Disclosure Form showing exactly how much of the Illinois Shines REC payment they are passing on to you. Participation requires using an Approved Vendor; your installer confirms current block availability and pricing at quote time.
Illinois Solar for All
Illinois Solar for All is a separate state program for income-eligible residents. Qualifying households receive solar through terms that guarantee their electricity costs are lower than they would have been without solar, either through on-site panels or community solar subscriptions. The program serves homeowners, renters (via community solar), and multifamily building owners. Eligibility is income-based; check the program website to see if your household qualifies before getting a quote.
Net metering: Net metering (ICC-regulated, ComEd and Ameren Illinois)
Illinois requires investor-owned utilities to offer net metering under Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) rules. Excess power your panels send to the grid is credited against what you draw at other times. ComEd and Ameren Illinois are the two major providers serving most of the state. Illinois net metering rules have been subject to ongoing ICC proceedings as part of broader distributed generation policy updates, so credit rates and program terms can change. Your installer confirms the current net-metering tariff and any applicable charges for your utility before your project is quoted.
Ready to see what solar costs you?
Get the full Illinois cost breakdown, payback estimate, and a quote from a vetted local installer.
See full Illinois cost breakdown & get a quote