Who Qualifies for $0 Down Solar in Illinois?

Not every home is a good fit for solar, and that’s okay. The Illinois Shines program has specific criteria that determine whether a property qualifies for rooftop solar with no upfront cost. If you're wondering whether your home makes the cut, this guide will walk you through it clearly — no fluff, no gimmicks.

 
Start with Ownership

This program is only available to homeowners. If you rent your home or live in a multi-unit property where you don’t control the roof, you won’t qualify — at least not directly. That’s because rooftop solar requires a long-term agreement and physical installation on your property.

Your Roof Matters (More Than You Think)

The size, shape, direction, and condition of your roof all play a role in whether or not a system can be installed.

Ideal Conditions:

South-facing rooflines
Minimal shade from trees or buildings
Relatively new roof (less than 15 years old)
Asphalt shingle or composite roofing
Even if your roof isn't perfect, some homes still qualify with partial sun exposure or on east/west orientations. That’s why we always recommend letting a consultant take a look before ruling it out.

 
Your Energy Provider

Most homeowners we help are ComEd customers. If you’re with ComEd, the process is streamlined because the program is structured around their delivery zones. If you have another provider, like Ameren, you may still qualify — but different rules may apply.

 
The Power Bill Is the Key

To size your solar system correctly, your most recent ComEd bill (front and back) is required. It shows how much electricity your home uses across seasons and helps determine whether you qualify — and for how much solar.

Without it, the system can’t be designed, which means no appointment can result in a clear proposal. That’s why we request it up front.

 
Credit Score Requirements

To qualify for zero-down installation, most programs require a minimum credit score — typically 650 or higher. This isn’t a hard rule across the board, but it’s common, especially for options that include battery backup.

 
What Happens If You Qualify

If your home checks the boxes, a consultant will walk you through:

Your system design
How much solar you’re eligible for
Your locked-in monthly solar rate
What kind of savings or backup options (like Tesla Powerwalls) apply
You’ll be asked to make a decision at the end of the appointment — but only after seeing what your numbers actually look like.

Final Word

Qualifying for Illinois Shines isn’t complicated. If you own your home, have a usable roof, and get your power from ComEd, there’s a strong chance you’re eligible. The rest comes down to reviewing your bill and seeing what makes sense for your situation.

Our job is to help you figure that out — without pressure, and with real numbers on the table.