The Illinois Solar Schools Grant is a grant opportunity that supports the installation of a 1kW photovoltaic (PV) system. Although each system is small, students can see first hand how sunlight is converted into electricity. Stateline Solar will complete the design, installation, and maintenance of PV systems. In addition, they will provide hands-on demonstrations with students per the school’s request during the school year.
How does grant funding work?
Eligible applicants may apply for up to $6,500 or 90% of the system and installation costs. This leaves the school with the responsibility of co-funding the remaining 10% of installation costs. This can be funded through community outreach and fundraisers.
Who is eligible for this grant?
- Public schools that provide continuous educational services to K-12 students
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that are either a private school or other educational organization that provides continuous educational services to K-12 students
Check out this video from Riverview Elementary School in East Peoria, Illinois on what makes a site eligible for receiving this grant.
How do I apply?
First, please contact Stateline Solar with your school’s interest. Then, applications must be completed by a teacher. Required attachments for the application include:
- K-12 Solar Schools Form (Click Here to Download)
- Photos of proposed PV location
- Organization’s budget summary for the year
- Internal Revenue Service (IRS) documentation confirming Employee Identification Number (EIN)
- IRS Tax Determination Letter (only applicable for 501 (c)(3))
- IL Charitable Donation Organization Annual Report (only applicable for 501 (c)(3))
When are the application periods?
There are 2 rounds of applications each year. The deadline for application submissions happens in late August & late February. After the application is submitted, the applicant will be notified within 3 months of award status.
Stateline Solar is a local company made up of employees that grew up and attended school in Northwestern Illinois. We want to help any interested school district with the Illinois Solar Schools Grant opportunity to provide them with a unique, hands-on learning experience for their students.
Here’s what Stateline Solar can do for your school:
- PV system design, production monitoring, and installation. This includes suggestion of system placement and mounting options
- Stateline Solar representative to present at any meetings necessary for the school to determine if they will apply for the application; and any meetings that request further information on what the program entails as well as the PV system criteria
- Assistance with application process upon request
- Hands-on educational sessions with any age group during the school year, per school’s request
- SolarEdge PV monitoring system that can be integrated through a mobile app or online website; and provide training on how to utilize the software for teachers and students
- All maintenance and repair of PV system as needed, with discounted rates
- Promote schools PV systems through press release, social media content, and other marketing outlets at no cost to the school
For more information regarding Illinois Solar Schools Grant, please contact:
Hilary Fiene
Chief Office Manager
815-580-3011
