Will County Powers Up Savings: Solar Incentives Spark Economic & Environmental Revival
Discover how Will County is embracing solar energy and paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future. This page highlights local initiatives, available incentives, and the growing impact of solar power across communities in the county. Learn how residents, businesses, and policymakers are working together to make renewable energy more accessible and effective in Will County, Illinois.
There is a healthy financial structure for solar energy in Will County, with a multitude of incentives that can lessen the initial investment without reducing the return on investment (ROI). These economic incentives include:
Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC)
The most significant benefit is the Federal Solar Tax Credit, which enables homeowners to deduct 30% of their solar installation costs from their taxable income through the end of 2033. For an average installation cost of $20,000, this equates to potential savings of $6,000. The financial advantages emphasize the importance of taking action sooner rather than later.
Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs)
Illinois also has SRECs (Solar Renewable Energy Certificates) that allow solar system owners to earn and sell certificates as they produce electricity. A 6-kilowatt (kW) system producing ~8,000 kWh/year can generate an additional income of $500–800 annually, significantly boosting ROI over a 5 to 7-year payback period.
Local Rebates and Incentives
Some municipalities, including Bolingbrook and Joliet, offer their own rebates ranging from $500 to $1,500. These can be combined with state and federal incentives for greater savings. Residents should check their local government websites for available programs.
Illinois Shines Program
This performance-based program offers upfront payments based on the expected energy output of solar systems. Additionally, commercial systems over 5 megawatts receive a 20% production bonus.
Community Solar: The Power of Energy for All
Community solar is an inclusive alternative for Will County residents who may not own homes or want to avoid upfront installation costs. Through community solar gardens—shared solar farms—participants can enjoy 10% to 20% savings on utility bills. The Joliet Community Solar project, launched in 2021, has helped over 1,000 subscribers save $1.2 million and has fostered local engagement and investment.
Jobs Created – Training Programs Launched
The expanding solar sector is generating jobs, with over 12,000 solar-related positions created in Illinois—many in Will County. Institutions like Prairie State College are preparing students for high-demand careers, offering certifications like the Solar-Photovoltaic (PV) Technician Certificate, which equips students to install, assemble, and maintain solar PV systems.
Environmental and Climate Benefits: Healthier Communities
Solar energy provides numerous environmental benefits. A typical residential system avoids 6 to 8 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually—equivalent to planting nearly 100 trees or taking two gasoline-powered cars off the road. Will County aims to cut fossil fuel usage by 40% by 2030, contributing to improved air quality and a healthier environment.
Solar Battery Storage: A Lifeline During Storms
Solar battery storage enhances resilience by supplying backup power during outages, such as those caused by the severe storms in 2024 that left many communities without power. Producing their own electricity helps residents shield themselves from rising energy prices and global market volatility.
Equity-Focused Policies: Inclusive Access
Will County is committed to equitable access to renewable energy. The Solar for All program provides no-cost installations for low-income households, while the Disadvantaged Communities Bonus increases incentives for underserved areas by 15-20%. These policies ensure that solar benefits reach everyone, especially historically excluded groups.
Enhancing Property Values
Installing solar panels not only reduces utility bills but also boosts property value. A Zillow study found that homes with solar systems sell for 4–6% more than similar homes without. In fast-paced markets like Naperville and Plainfield, solar-equipped homes are especially attractive to buyers.
Conclusion: Reinventing and Accelerating a Sustainable Future
With state and federal incentives covering 50–70% of installation costs, solar adoption is both financially viable and socially impactful. Will County residents are creating a future that is more resilient, inclusive, and economically vibrant.
This movement is more than a technological shift—it’s a lifestyle rooted in sustainability, offering a model that other communities can emulate as they transition to renewable energy.