Standard Solar, a commercial and community solar developer, has acquired a community solar portfolio of 14 projects in Illinois with a combined capacity of 84 MW from New Leaf Energy.
The 14 projects will be broken into three sets of community solar gardens throughout the state:
- Six sites with a capacity of 47 MW
- Four sites with a capacity of 12 MW
- Four sites with a capacity of 25 MW
Construction is scheduled to commence in 2024, with completion projected for the end of 2024 and the beginning of 2025.
“With the acquisition of this extensive portfolio, Standard Solar demonstrates our commitment to Illinois’ growing solar industry,” said Harry Benson, Director of Business Development at Standard Solar. “These community solar projects will empower customers, especially those with lower to moderate incomes, to realize significant cost savings on their electricity bill, all while contributing to the growth of renewable energy and advancing Illinois’ ambitious clean energy objectives.”
Community solar programs represent a fast-growing sector within the renewable energy industry by delivering locally produced, affordable, clean energy to residences and businesses.
Community solar also offers an inclusive path for all customers to utilize clean solar energy without installing personal solar panels. Participants enroll in a solar project and receive credits on their monthly bills based on the power generated by the project. The generated power is then integrated into the grid to enhance the overall energy supply.
“Amidst a year of record-breaking temperatures and rising energy costs in the state, Illinois is providing its residents a clean path to clean, affordable energy for a more sustainable future,” added Benson.
