Everything you need to know about Illinois Community Solar Legislation.
Table 1: Key Takeaways
Key Point | Description |
Expansion | Illinois aims to generate over 1.5 GW of solar power in the next decade. |
Equity Focus | Legislation includes initiatives for equitable energy access. |
Economic Impact | Significant job creation and investment in local communities. |
Incentive Changes | Adjustments in SREC values starting June 2024. |
Community Solar Capacity Expansion
New Projects: 78 community solar projects selected by the Illinois Power Agency.
Total Capacity: Addition of 170 MW of solar power to Illinois’ grid.
Households Powered: Enough capacity to power over 26,000 Illinois households.
Table 2: Community Solar Project Details
Project Aspect | Details |
Workforce | Prevailing wage and 10% from disadvantaged communities |
Location | 49 projects in Chicago area, 33 in rural areas |
Environment | Commitment to pollinator-friendly habitats and farming activities |
Project Submission | Over 17,000 small and 300 large rooftop projects since CEJA’s passage |
Community-Driven Community Solar
Projects: Community solar projects up to 5 MW.
Percentage: Comprise at least 5% of Illinois Shines.
Connection: Direct benefits to communities they serve.
CDCS Scoring: Projects scored for the 2023-2024 Program Year.
Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs)
Function: Track renewable energy sent to the grid.
Incentives: Illinois Power Agency sets annual SREC prices.
Changes in 2024: Decrease in SREC prices, affecting incentive payouts.
Table 3: SREC Program Details
Process Step | Duration |
Contract & Disclosure Form Signing | Initial Step |
Part I Application Submission | 1 – 2 Months |
Commission Review | 1 – 3 Weeks |
SREC Contract Execution | 3 – 4 Weeks |
Energy Justice and Community Involvement
Projects by BIG: First, second, and fourth in Illinois Shines competitive process.
Goals: Village-scale energy solutions, including microgrids and local EV charging stations.
Community Benefits: Co-ownership, profit sharing, and equitable workforce training.
Table 4: BIG's Community Solar Projects
Project | Description |
Community Engagement | Inclusion of local organizations for energy justice |
Solar Sovereignty | Emphasis on ownership and wealth building in marginalized communities |
Co-op Model | Low-income communities of color own their energy generation |
Future Outlook for Community Solar in Illinois
Equitable Workforce Development: Focus on creating rewarding, family-supporting careers.
Community-Led Policy: Efforts to ensure ongoing benefits from clean energy policies. Illinois Community Solar Legislation
Table 5: Future Projections
Projection | Description |
Capacity Growth | Continued expansion of community solar projects |
Economic Empowerment | Increased job opportunities and community investments |
Environmental Benefits | Enhanced sustainable practices and energy independence |
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