Cook County’s Solar Revolution: Explore Programs, Save Money, and Join the Clean Energy Shift
Solar adoption in Cook County, Illinois is accelerating as a result of a strong system of policies, programs, projects, and incentives to promote sustainability and equity. With a goal of 100% clean energy by 2050, the county is working to help drive solar adoption — especially among low to moderate-income residents. Let’s take a closer look at the main advantages of using solar energy in Cook County, as well as some specific programs that provide more detail.
Policies
ARPA Funding
With its investment of a little over $100 million into increasing solar energy adoption through the Sun and Save program, Cook County has laid the groundwork for something big with some major implications. This initiative not only underscores climate resilience, acknowledging the need to adapt to and mitigate climate change, but it also centers around equity, ensuring disadvantaged communities can access renewable energy technologies. The fund enables people-focused development around economic and energy opportunities in solar.
State Renewable Targets
Illinois has its sights set on a 100% clean energy future by 2050, and is proactively pursuing solar energy expansion through programs like Illinois Shines. Adopting this framework will help align and kick-start solar deployment at scale around the state and also has the potential to deliver benefits at the local economy level. Policies generally promote job creation and environmental conservation within the state through renewable energy development.
Programs
Sun and Save Program
Free Installations: Income-qualified residents (with incomes from 80% to 120% of the area median income) will be provided with, and be able to install their own solar systems, free of charge, through the Sun and Save program. This further reduces the barrier to entry for families who otherwise would face a financial wall with an initial investment in solar technology.
Funding timeframe: The program is scheduled to run through August 2026 or until funds are expended; therefore, it’s a time-sensitive opportunity for potential participants to access these offerings.
SEDAC-led: The Smart Energy Design Assistance Center (SEDAC) administers the program, providing technical expertise critical to successful installation (and ensuring compliance with local codes and maximum efficiency).
Solar Synergy Program
Aimed at stimulating the local economy, the Solar Synergy Program offers workforce training and business development assistance to develop skilled jobs in the solar industry. This initiative is key to creating a sustainable job market, as it also enables businesses in every locality to expand their productivity in the emerging renewable energy economy.
Illinois Shines (Adjustable Block Program)
Illinois Shines helps drive direct solar installations via Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs). The program rewards residents with financial incentives to engage in solar energy generation by allowing Cook County ComEd customers to receive even higher SREC rates than those prescribed by the SREC program based on energy generation forecasts. Aligning with the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act guarantees that this program also focuses on ensuring equitable access to clean energy resources.
Illinois Solar for All
Visit us online: Illinois Solar for All
The Illinois Solar for All program is focused specifically on low-income households at or below 80% of AMI and offers a no-cost installation of solar systems that are guaranteed to save on bills. It’s designed to relieve energy costs for some of the most vulnerable, making sure the transition into renewable energy is fair and is a win-win for all walks of life.
Projects
Installations of Residential Solar
Cook County executives say major increases in residential solar installations across the county are on the way now that $100 million is available for the Sun and Save program. The vertical expansions are helping residents save money on energy costs, while demonstrating the county’s prioritization of environmental goals through a higher percentage of local generation offset by renewable energy.
Workforce Development
With a significant focus on workforce development, the Solar Synergy Program embodies career pathways that serve as a conduit to green jobs in the rapidly-growing solar sector. It bolsters local economies by reskilling and upskilling, all while contributing to laying the foundation for a sustainable infrastructure to support future job seekers in the renewable energy sector.
Incentives
Federal Tax Credit
Federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (RCEC): Roth explains: The federal RCEC offers a generous 30% tax credit for solar systems, lower upfront costs, and better economics for projects.
ComEd Rebates
$300 per kW Solar Installation Rebates: Homeowners can qualify for up to $300 per kW of solar installations.
$450/kWh for adding battery storage to solar systems — also seen as a way to provide complete energy solutions where system-integrated battery storage can offset energy use and ensure that energy is available when needed.
Property Tax Exemption
They also allow residents to deduct 100% of the increased value of the home due to solar installations from their property tax assessments. We have also agreed to a proposal to exempt solar investments from property tax, which allows homeowners to move forward with their solar investment without the rising property taxes.
Commercial Incentives
Cook County offers state financial incentives to larger solar installations, potentially ranging from $35 to $50 per megawatt-hour created. These investments support large-scale solar projects that advance broader energy goals.
Additional Benefits
Bill Savings
Homeowners receive credits for excess power put back into the grid, from their solar systems, through net metering. In fact, this mechanism will not only give impetus to individual savings, but will also enable a stronger grid.
Environmental Impact
Solar energy significantly reduces fossil fuels and lowers carbon emissions to fight climate change. Shifting to renewable energy sources will help Cook County become more environmentally sustainable.
Equity Focus
They also ensure access for the communities that have been left behind.
Conclusion
Cook County, Illinois is ripe for solar uptake with these concrete policies, programs, projects, and incentives in place. It sends a clear message that it will take decisive action to promote environmental sustainability and seek to share the benefits of solar energy equally between its residents. For more information on eligibility and to apply, individuals are encouraged to visit the Cook County Sun and Save website or contact SEDAC directly at [email protected].