Custom Solar Systems
Custom Solar Systems | Solar Installation | Electrical | Rockford
Imagine rooftops across Rockford quietly converting sunshine into savings while HEP’s master electricians handle every wire, panel, and permit with precision. Our team designs custom solar systems that fit your property like a glove—whether it’s a cozy bungalow in Edgewater or a bustling warehouse on East State Street. From the first watt of energy modeling to the final handshake with the inspector, we streamline the entire solar installation so you can watch your utility bills shrink and your home’s value rise.
Beyond craftsmanship, we’re neighbors invested in Rockford’s brighter future. That’s why we source high-efficiency panels, back them with industry-leading warranties, and stay only a call away long after the sun sets. When you’re ready to power your life with clean, dependable energy, HEP is ready to make the switch effortless—and seriously rewarding—for decades to come.
FAQs
What incentives and rebates are available for installing solar in Rockford, Illinois?
Rockford homeowners and businesses can take advantage of several programs. First, the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) lets you deduct 30 % of the system cost from your federal taxes. At the state level, Illinois Shines (the Adjustable Block Program) pays you for the first 15 years of renewable-energy credits (SRECs) your array generates—often covering 25–35 % of the upfront price. ComEd customers in Rockford can also receive one-time smart inverter rebates if installing batteries or larger commercial arrays, and some city/Winnebago County property-tax abatements may apply for qualifying projects. Our team helps you file every application so you receive the maximum savings.
How much energy will my custom solar system produce in Rockford’s climate?
Rockford averages roughly 4.2–4.4 sun-hours per day on an annual basis. For every kilowatt (kW) of solar installed, you can expect around 1,250–1,350 kWh of electricity per year. We design your array using local weather data, exact roof azimuth, shading analysis, and panel specifications to provide a production estimate within ±5 %. During your consultation we’ll model different system sizes so you can see how many kWh—and how much bill savings—you will gain at each level of investment.
What is the typical installation timeline for a residential solar project in Rockford?
From signed contract to permission to operate (PTO) generally takes 6–10 weeks. Design and engineering: 1 week. Permitting with the City of Rockford/Winnebago County: 1–2 weeks. Utility interconnection approval with ComEd: 1–3 weeks (runs concurrently). On-site installation: usually 1–2 days for most homes. Final inspections and utility meter swap: 1–2 weeks after installation. Commercial systems can take longer due to structural reviews and utility engineering studies; we provide a detailed Gantt chart at project kickoff so you always know the next milestone.
How will a solar system affect my utility bill and what net-metering options are available?
ComEd’s net-metering program credits you at the full retail rate for every excess kWh sent to the grid until May 31 of each year. Any unused credits roll over month-to-month and are cashed out at the utility’s avoided-cost rate at the annual true-up. A properly sized system will zero out most of your energy charges while you still pay the basic customer and delivery fees (around $15–$25 monthly). Our monitoring app lets you track production vs. consumption so you always know how much you’re saving.
What maintenance is required for my solar panels and electrical components?
Solar PV systems are largely maintenance-free. Panels have no moving parts and are designed to shed rain and snow at Rockford’s typical roof pitches. We recommend a visual inspection and performance check once a year. Inverter firmware updates are performed remotely. If you notice production dropping more than 10 %, call us for a free diagnostic. All panels carry 25-year power warranties, and we include a 10-year workmanship warranty plus a 5-year free labor plan for any warranty-related repairs.
Can my solar system include battery storage and how does it work during power outages?
Yes. We integrate lithium-ion battery systems such as Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery that store excess solar energy for evening use or backup power. During a grid outage, an automatic transfer switch isolates your home and the battery supplies critical loads—refrigerator, sump pump, Wi-Fi, lighting, etc.—within a fraction of a second. A typical 13.5 kWh battery can run those loads 12–18 hours; additional batteries increase duration. Illinois currently offers the same 30 % federal tax credit on batteries, and ComEd’s smart inverter rebate can reduce costs further. We size the storage based on outage history, essential load panel calculations, and your budget.