Illinois / Highland
Is solar worth it in Highland?
Ameren Illinois Company averages 8.3¢/kWh. With 4.5 peak sun hours a day, a typical 7.8 kW system makes ~10,296 kWh a year and saves about $854 in year one.
No federal tax credit is included. The 30% homeowner credit (IRS §25D) ended for systems installed after Dec 31, 2025. What changed in 2026 →
How Highland compares
That is slower than the Illinois average of 15.6 years, mainly because Highland's rate is below the state average of 10.9¢/kWh. Your own payback depends on your bill: enter your ZIP and monthly bill above for your number.
| Nearby city | Rate | Payback | 25-yr net |
|---|---|---|---|
| Troy | 8.3¢ | 19.0 yrs | $9,672 |
| Glen Carbon | 8.3¢ | 19.0 yrs | $9,672 |
| Edwardsville | 8.3¢ | 19.0 yrs | $9,672 |
| O'Fallon | 8.3¢ | 19.0 yrs | $9,672 |
| Collinsville | 8.3¢ | 19.0 yrs | $9,672 |
| Shiloh | 8.3¢ | 19.0 yrs | $9,672 |
| Fairview Heights | 8.3¢ | 19.0 yrs | $9,672 |
| Wood River | 8.3¢ | 19.0 yrs | $9,672 |
Questions
How long does solar take to pay off in Highland, IL?
About 19.0 years for a typical 7.8 kW system at 8.3 cents/kWh, assuming $2.75/W installed, full net metering and 3% yearly rate increases, with no federal tax credit.
Is solar worth it in Highland?
Only in some cases; payback is long. Our estimate is $854 saved in year one and $9,672 net over 25 years after paying for the system.
How much does a solar system cost in Highland?
A 7.8 kW system sized for an average home (863 kWh/month) is about $21,450 before any local rebates, at $2.75 per watt. Real quotes vary by roof and installer.
Is there a federal solar tax credit in 2026?
Not for homeowners who buy their system. The 30% Residential Clean Energy Credit (IRS section 25D) does not apply to installations completed after December 31, 2025. State rebates, SRECs and utility incentives may still apply.
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