I have wanted to explore solar for years. When the Ameren rates almost doubled last year and our monthly costs went from $350/month to $575/month, it was a tipping point. Once we realized something had to be done, we decided to start to explore options. David Knight was someone that I knew through school — his daughter and my son are the same age, so we have known each other casually for years. I ran into him at Costco and asked how much his Ameren rates had gone through the roof. That is when I found out that he was involved with Illinois Solar Services. We set up a time to meet and go through what the options were for us. My system was installed and turned on in spring 2023. The process was a little arduous and required patience. I know once I decide to proceed, I want to go, go, go! However, at the time we signed our contract, there were still some supply chain issues lingering from COVID-19 and we had to wait a little for our system to completely come in. Once the installation was complete, we had to wait for Ameren to “turn it on”! Other than the waiting, the team at Illinois Solar was amazing! I received weekly updates with the status of what was going on. They took care of all of the inspections, permits, and other coordination with Ameren that was required. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience.

My system has been a game changer. Our expenses in the summer and fall have been cut dramatically. We went from a level pay plan monthly of $575 to Ameren to just under $100-150. Our payment on the system is $120, so we are averaging $225 total instead of $575. That savings will only increase every time the electric rates go up now. Now I am just sad that I waited so long to do it. We expect to see our ROI in three years or less.

I have three things to tell people considering adding solar:

1.  This is a no-brainer if you plan to live in your house for more than three to five years. It is the best addition to our home that we have made in the 14 years we have lived here.

2. Be careful — I have heard of a bunch of “solar companies” going around selling systems to people and ripping them off. Do your homework! By far, David Knight was the most honest and forthcoming of the three companies I talked with. I can say this because I am an electrician by trade and knew what I was talking about before I met with anyone. In the end, IL Solar was the only solar company I felt I could trust with my home.

3. Know who is going to do the installation of your system. Illinois Solar Services uses local, IBEW-trained electricians who were great. They did not leave a mess, they were punctual, and they were very professional. I was amazed at the speed and craftsmanship with which they installed my 48 panels. You don’t want some out-of-state crew getting paid by the system — the faster they are done, the better. I have seen some installations that look like a mess with conduit all over the house. Mine is done very well with no exposed conduits — everything is done cleanly and looks great.

I don’t have any affiliation with Illinois Solar Services, but let’s just say I had very high expectations on how my system would be designed and installed because I am an electrician myself. At every step of the process, Illinois Solar Services exceeded my expectations. If I either move or build a new home, the first thing I will do is call Illinois Solar Services again.