How much can balcony solar save in Illinois?

At Illinois's average residential rate of about 18.9¢/kWh, a typical 800W plug-in kit saves roughly $132/year. Use the balcony solar calculator for a precise estimate based on your home and sun exposure.

Is plug-in solar legal in Illinois?

Bill in progress

Not yet. Illinois has a plug-in solar bill in progress (SB 3104), but it is not law. Passed the Senate Energy Committee 9–4; on the calendar for a floor vote. Companion bills HB 4371 / HB 4516 also advancing. Standard utility interconnection rules apply in the meantime.

SB 3104 — key provisions

Illinois has the largest renter population of any state with an active bill.

Avg electricity rate

18.9¢/kWh

Est. savings, 800W kit

~$132/yr

Typical kit size

800W

Safety basics (everywhere)

Regardless of your state's law, use a kit with a UL 1741 (or UL 3700) certified microinverter, plug into a GFCI-protected outlet on a dedicated circuit, and don't exceed the circuit's rating. These are the same safety rules the new state laws are built around.

Thinking about balcony solar in Illinois?

Ask the free Energy Advisor about the rules and your savings, or jump straight to the calculator.

Estimate your exact payback

Our balcony solar calculator models production, savings, and payback for Illinois using your home's sun exposure and the best available kits.

Open the balcony solar calculator →

General guidance, not legal advice. Plug-in solar law is changing quickly; this reflects our reading of Illinois legislative records and reporting as of June 18, 2026. Confirm the current rule with the Illinois legislature and your utility before installing. See all states →