As part of Illinois’ energy transformation, many large-scale solar installations have been built in the Northwestern Illinois region. Often, we’re asked: “Who built these?”, “Who is this energy for?”, and “Why are these taking up farm land in our agricultural community?”
These installations are built for community solar.
In Stephenson County alone, 44 community solar projects are permitted. To date, three of these projects have been completed, and four are currently in construction. The biggest of these community solar projects will be 100MW and located on 600 acres in the Eco Grove Wind Farm in West Point Township. In total, Stephenson County is on track to install 180MW of solar power. At the completion of these solar fields, they will be able to provide 156% of Stephenson County’s total household energy needs at peak demand.
This slates Stephenson County as one of the most renewable regions in the state.
What is Community Solar?
Community solar fields or “farms” are large-scale solar installations built to provide solar power to renters, those with shaded properties, or those that do not wish to install a private solar array on their property. This creates renewable energy access to members in our community that cannot invest in private solar energy systems.
Who Builds These Community Solar Fields?
Often, these fields are owned and operated by a community solar developer. Companies like Acciona and Knobelsdorff are community solar developers involved in projects in Stephenson County. The energy they generate gets pushed to the grid and becomes a part of the energy supply. Utilities like ComEd deliver the energy through their grid infrastructure and add it to their portfolio of renewable energy generated.
Who Uses the Energy?
Local homes and businesses must subscribe to community solar projects. Utilities and Retail Electric Suppliers will send information to those in their service area, and customers can choose to opt-in to power their home with solar energy.
Why are Solar Fields Taking Up Farm Land in Our Agricultural Community?
Farmers choose to rent or sell their land to community solar developers. While it takes land out of agricultural production, this is another way for farmers to produce a critical need for their community. Solar energy is a year-long harvest that benefits those around them.
Why are Community Solar Fields Common in Northwestern Illinois?
Simply said, our area has critical electrical infrastructure needed to distribute solar energy. With farmers willing to rent or sell acres of unshaded, clear land, this creates the perfect set-up for community solar installations. In the construction and continued maintenance of these solar fields, jobs are brought to our community.
Stateline Solar is a residential solar installation company. This means that we do not install community solar fields, nor do we purchase land for installation purposes. For those that would like to own their own solar array, submit your powerbill for a FREE solar quote!