Illinois Solar Energy Growth: Why the Prairie State Is a Rising Star in Renewable Energy

Exploring the Policies, Progress, and Potential Behind Illinois’ Solar Revolution

Illinois has been making significant strides in the renewable energy sector, particularly with solar power and other renewable sources . The state’s commitment to transitioning to 100% clean energy by 2050 has led to a surge in solar installations and investments. This growth is supported by various state policies and incentives designed to make Illinois solar energy more accessible and affordable for residents and businesses alike.

One of the key factors driving this solar boom is the adoption of new policies and technologies. Utilities in Illinois are adopting a new crediting method known as Smart Solar Billing, which changes how customers with solar panels are compensated for excess electricity. This method not only encourages the timely adoption of solar technologies but also highlights the potential savings associated with these new policies. As Illinois continues to push forward with its clean energy goals, the importance of adopting innovative solutions and supportive policies cannot be overstated, particularly in terms of solar capacity.

Introduction to Solar in Illinois

Illinois is rapidly emerging as a leader in the growing solar market, with a strong commitment to renewable energy sources. The state has set ambitious goals to produce 25% of its energy from renewable sources by 2025 and aims for 100% reliance on renewable energy by 2050. Solar power is a cornerstone of Illinois’ renewable energy growth, driving significant investment in solar projects, including community solar projects.

The Illinois Power Agency Act mandates that electric utility companies source at least 25% of their energy output from renewable energy sources by 2025. This legislative push positions Illinois to meet its renewable energy goals effectively. Over the past decade, the state has seen a total solar investment of over $8.8 billion, reflecting the robust growth and potential of solar energy in Illinois.

As solar development continues to rise across the state, Illinois is expected to see even more solar projects come to fruition, further solidifying its status as a renewable energy powerhouse.

Solar Energy in Illinois Isn’t a Trend—It’s a Transformation

Ten years ago, few would have guessed that Illinois would be a leading voice in solar energy growth. But today, it’s no longer a question of if Illinois will lead in renewable energy—it’s how fast it will get there.

From revamped policies to rural solar farms, the Prairie State is seeing an energy transformation that’s creating jobs, revitalizing communities, and setting a national example. This article explores what’s driving Illinois solar energy growth and why now is the ideal time to get involved—whether you’re a homeowner, renter, farmer, or energy professional. Residents can take advantage of various programs, such as solar net-metering and rebates, which offer significant savings and incentives for transitioning to renewable energy sources.

1. The Policy That Sparked the Surge: CEJA

Every major shift has a turning point. For Illinois solar energy growth, it was the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA).

Passed in 2021, CEJA made a firm commitment to 100% clean energy by 2050. But it did more than set a deadline. It opened the door wide for solar investment through incentives, grants, job training, and equity-focused programs. Obtaining permit approval for solar development under CEJA is crucial, as it ensures compliance with local zoning and land use regulations. CEJA isn’t just a clean energy law—it’s a structural change to how Illinois approaches the energy economy.

Highlights:

• Expanded funding for solar development and workforce training
• Financial support for low-income solar adoption: The Illinois Solar for All program ensures that low-income customers will not pay more than half of the value they would receive monthly from their solar system towards its installation cost. This makes solar energy more affordable and accessible for those who need it most.
• Targets to retire fossil fuel plants and replace capacity with renewable energy

Takeaway: New CEJA programs are still rolling out. Keep an eye on grant opportunities, especially for solar developers and job seekers.

“This isn’t just an energy bill—it’s a blueprint for equity and climate justice.” – Governor J.B. Pritzker

2. Financial Incentives for Solar

Illinois offers a variety of financial incentives to support the development of solar energy, making it more accessible and affordable for residents and businesses alike. One of the most significant incentives is the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which provides a 30% tax credit for solar energy systems. Additionally, the Illinois Shines program offers further incentives to encourage the adoption of solar energy among consumers, businesses, and communities.

These financial incentives have made solar energy more attractive and affordable, driving substantial growth in solar projects across the state. The Illinois Shines program, in particular, has benefited the solar industry by providing rebates and other financial support, including incentives for battery storage making it easier for individuals and businesses to invest in solar energy.

The state’s renewable portfolio standard has also played a crucial role in driving growth and investment in solar projects. By setting clear targets and providing financial incentives, Illinois has created a favorable environment for the solar industry to thrive and increase energy from renewable sources.

Economic Benefits:

The economic benefits of solar energy in Illinois are substantial. Over the past decade, the solar industry has generated over $8.8 billion in economic activity, creating thousands of jobs and stimulating local economies. As of 2024, Illinois ranks fourth in the nation for solar jobs, with over 5,441 jobs created in the solar sector.

Community solar subscribers in Illinois enjoy guaranteed savings on their utility bills, with many seeing reductions of up to 10%. These savings not only benefit individual consumers but also contribute to the overall economic health of the state by reducing energy costs for businesses and residents.

The growth of the solar industry in Illinois has also created new opportunities for local businesses and residents, further stimulating economic growth and development. As the state continues to invest in solar energy, the economic benefits are expected to increase, creating a more sustainable and prosperous future for all, ensuring enough energy for future generations.

2. Community Solar: Clean Energy Without a Rooftop

You don’t need to install solar panels to benefit from solar energy in Illinois.

Community solar allows residents to subscribe to a shared solar project and receive credits on their utility bills. This opens the door for renters, condo owners, and homeowners with shaded rooftops to take part in Illinois’ solar energy growth.

As of 2024, over 100 community solar projects were active or under development. State support continues to expand access and improve affordability.

Why It Matters:

• Accessible to customers without property ownership
• No equipment or maintenance required for customers
• Helps expand solar equity statewide, benefiting customers through state-sponsored programs and rebates

Takeaway: If you’re unable to install solar directly, explore community solar as a practical and cost-saving alternative.

“Community solar is about democratizing energy—it brings clean power to everyone, not just homeowners.” – Sarah Hastings, Director at Illinois Solar Energy Association

4. Distributed Generation and Solar Panels

Distributed generation, which involves generating energy at or near the point of use, is a key component of Illinois’ solar energy strategy. Solar panels are a popular choice for distributed generation, and the state has seen significant growth in the installation of solar panels in recent years. With over 857,452 homes in Illinois now powered by solar energy and significant solar capacity installed , the state is well on its way to meeting its renewable energy goals.

The use of solar panels and distributed generation has helped to reduce Illinois’ reliance on fossil fuels and lower greenhouse gas emissions. This shift towards cleaner energy sources is not only beneficial for the environment but also for the state’s energy security and resilience.

From a technical perspective, solar panels are a reliable and efficient way to harness energy from the sun. Illinois has seen significant growth in its solar capacity installed, with over 5,975 solar installations to date. The state’s energy storage market is also expanding, with over 0.1 gigawatts of battery storage capacity installed as of 2023. This growth in energy storage has improved the reliability and efficiency of the state’s energy grid, enabling more homes and businesses to adopt solar energy.

Continued investment in solar projects and supportive policies and regulations are essential to drive further growth in the industry. As Illinois moves forward with its renewable energy goals, the role of distributed generation and solar panels will remain crucial in achieving a sustainable and clean energy future.

3. Solar Energy Means Economic Growth and Job Creation

Illinois isn’t just generating more solar power—it’s generating more jobs.

The growth of solar energy in Illinois is fueling the state’s economy. From installation crews to engineering teams and maintenance technicians, opportunities in the solar sector are multiplying across Illinois. These jobs are particularly attractive to those seeking career changes, green job training, or opportunities in the trades.

Specific companies have developed solar projects in Illinois, highlighting the stakeholders behind their creation and emphasizing the projects' capacity and impact on local energy consumption.

By 2023, the Illinois solar industry supported more than 5,200 jobs—and projections estimate that number could double by 2026.

Economic Impact:

• Jobs in design, construction, and system maintenance
• Career pathways for recent grads and transitioning workers
• CEJA-funded workforce training networks expanding across the state
• Financial incentives and savings: Solar energy options provide significant financial benefits. Landowners and homeowners can save money through leasing land for solar projects and taking advantage of various programs, tax credits, and rebates that reduce installation costs, leading to long-term savings.

Takeaway: If you’re considering a new career or workforce reentry, the solar industry offers growing opportunities with long-term potential.

“Solar power doesn’t just generate electricity—it generates opportunity.” – Carla Walker, Workforce Development Coordinator

4. Illinois Solar for All: Making Clean Energy Equitable

Solar energy shouldn’t be a luxury. In Illinois, it’s becoming a right.

The Illinois Solar for All program ensures that low-income families can access clean energy without paying out of pocket for installations. Participants not only benefit from renewable energy but also enjoy long-term savings—often without any upfront costs. Illinois law supports solar adoption through the Illinois Solar for All program, categorizing various energy types and informing transitions in solar incentives and regulations.

This program puts energy justice front and center. It’s one of the most ambitious efforts in the country to make solar power inclusive and equitable.

Program Benefits:

• Reduced energy bills by up to 50%, helping participants save significantly on their energy costs
• No upfront installation costs for qualifying households
• Long-term savings contracts for participating families

Takeaway: If you qualify, applying early is critical. These programs fill quickly due to high demand and limited annual funding.

“Access to clean energy should not be determined by your zip code.” – Naomi Davis, Founder, Blacks in Green

5. Farmland to Solar Farms: Rural Communities on the Rise

Solar energy isn’t just an urban trend—it’s reshaping rural economies too.

Across Illinois, agricultural landowners are partnering with solar developers to lease unused fields for solar farms. These long-term contracts bring steady revenue to rural landowners while supporting the state’s clean energy goals.

A single solar lease can offer $800–$1,200 per acre per year—creating a reliable income stream that complements traditional farming operations and helps landowners create new revenue streams.

Key Benefits:

• Stable, multi-year income for landowners
• Minimal land disruption
• Local job creation and infrastructure investment
• Providing resources for local communities to support renewable energy initiatives and access information on transitioning to solar power

Takeaway: If you own underutilized farmland, leasing it for solar may offer long-term financial benefits with little ongoing effort.

“Solar leases have become a critical revenue stream for struggling farmers.” – Alan Burchfield, Farm Bureau Advisor

6. The Future of Illinois Solar: Bright and Accelerating

The momentum behind Illinois solar energy growth and storage is only increasing.

With CEJA policies in full swing and additional support from recent federal legislation, Illinois is aiming for ambitious solar expansion targets. By 2030, the state plans to add over 4,000 megawatts of installed capacity—enough solar to power more than 800,000 homes.

The result? A cleaner grid, lower emissions, more jobs, and stronger communities.

Where It’s Headed:

• Major utility-scale solar projects in development
• More residential and community solar adoption, with customers needing to opt in to new solar programs to maximize savings
• Greater access through equity-based programs

Takeaway: Whether you’re interested in clean energy, job opportunities, or reducing your electricity costs, Illinois is creating space for you to be part of the solution.

“We’re turning ambition into action.” – Sylvia Garcia, Director, Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity

Final Thoughts: Illinois Is Building a Solar Future for Everyone

Solar energy in Illinois isn’t a niche effort. It’s a full-scale transformation backed by policy, powered by people, and driven by a clear vision for a cleaner, more equitable future.

From rooftop panels in the suburbs to sprawling solar farms in the countryside, Illinois solar energy growth is impacting every corner of the state. If you’ve been watching from the sidelines, now is the time to act. By adopting solar technology, you are not only contributing to a sustainable future for Illinois but also taking responsibility for protecting our planet.

Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, business owner, farmer, or job seeker, Illinois is proving that renewable energy isn’t just for the few—it’s for everyone.

What’s your take on Illinois’ solar growth? Are you seeing projects pop up in your area? Thinking about making the switch? Contact a Solar Installer in Illinois Today