Top 5 Reasons Illinois Is the Best Place to Build Solar + Storage Projects Right Now
Illinois is fast emerging as one of the most attractive states for the growth of solar and energy storage. The combination of forward-looking legislation, strong fiscal incentives, and growing demand for clean energy is creating a unique nexus for renewable energy investment. Property owners and developers are finding unprecedented opportunities to grow in this dynamic market. All this is aided by the factors below:
1. Strong Policy Support:
The Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) has a 100% clean energy target by 2050, accompanied by ambitious interim goals that support speeding up solar and storage deployments. It provides a strong clear long-term signal to developers and investors.
2. Attractive Incentives:
Programs like the Illinois Distributed Generation Rebate offer $250/kWh for storage and $250/kW for solar, while programs like the Coal-to-Solar Energy Storage Grant Program offer additional support for utility-scale ventures.
3. Market Demand:
As companies and homeowners look to cut costs and improve resilience, storage provides peak-shaving, backup power, and demand charge management. When paired with solar, the projects are more economically compelling than ever.
4. Infrastructure Repurposing:
Illinois is repurposing locations of retired coal power plants as centers of clean energy, bringing unique opportunities for large projects while promoting communities in transition.
5. Grid Modernization
Supporting a role for smart inverters and new procurement models, including the Indexed Storage Credit, Illinois is laying the groundwork for a flexible, resilient, and future-proof grid.
For property owners, developers, and investors, Illinois is clearly the place to be. Are you a landowner or an industrial roof owner? Join Telkes in leading the green energy revolution! Let us help you turn your property into a sustainable energy solution that benefits the planet. Visit Telkes today and discover how you can contribute to a cleaner future while maximizing your property's potential. Together, we can power a brighter, greener world!
