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The state of solar power in Illinois

Illinois is firmly in the middle of the pack when it comes to solar power rankings. As of 2018, they rank 33rd in the country. With solar panels dropping in cost across the country, Illinois looks poised to make a significant shift to solar power moving forward. In the last year alone, they have over doubled their output.

Illinois has a rich history with solar power, as the first experimental solar power plant was created in Olney, Illinois, in 1902. Fast forward to early 2020, and Illinois is looking to the future as the Clean Energy Jobs Act (SB 2132/HB 3624) aims to run the state on 100 percent renewable energy by the year 2050.

How much solar power does Illinois produce?

As of 2018, 26,916 homes in Illinois are powered by solar energy. Although that may sound like a lot, it is only 0.12 percent of the state’s overall electricity usage. That figure includes nearly 450 solar companies, while there has been an estimated $448.29 million committed in solar investments. There is a silver lining, however, as solar production in the state is projected to grow by 1,727 MW over the next five years.

The state has 174.55MW currently installed, which will surely increase in the years to come. In 2019, there were 8,526 solar installations in Illinois. Their current renewable energy portfolio standard is requiring that the state be run by 25 percent solar power by the year 2025 as a stepping stone on their way to 100 percent.

Is solar power generation feasible in Illinois?

SunPower provides Illinois residents with Solar Panels

Illinois is a state of extremes. They have extreme winters filled with biting cold, ice storms, and frequent snow showers. In the summer, their temperatures can routinely reach upwards of 100 degrees Fahrenheit. As a result, switching to solar power could allow customers to have a newfound faith in their electrical capabilities.

The sunny spring, summer, and fall months make them a viable candidate for solar power. Even facing severe winters, they see around 190 days of sunshine each year.

What legal considerations affect solar power in Illinois?

The Clean Jobs Energy Act would be a big step for Illinois. Under this act, $180 million will be set aside annually to be used by utility and energy companies to create new wind-powered and solar installations. There will also be around $200 million used as Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) to give people more reason to go solar and develop these installations in their communities.

In all, 50 percent of these credits will be used solely for community-solar initiatives. As a result, those who are unable to afford to build their own solar installations will be able to use the panels provided in their communities as an alternative source for their power. Participating will grant each community member a set percentage off their electric bill.

How can I start using solar in Illinois?

SunPower is in the business of solar power to help customers make a difference on their own terms. If you’re looking to become more eco-friendly, self-sufficient, and possibly save some money along the way, we would love to schedule a consultation with you so we can see how we can help.

Start with SunPower. Whether you are a homeowner, business or homebuilder, SunPower has services and products to suit your needs. Request a free savings estimate to get started and find out how much you can save with SunPower^® solar.