Exploring Solar With Illinois Shines

Great – you’re considering participating in Illinois Shines! It’s time to review the types of solar projects available through the program. This page describes Distributed Generation and Community Solar projects, and some of the key considerations for consumers. Our Introduction to Illinois Shines: Solar Basics & More (English and Spanish) is a valuable resource for customers considering going solar, providing helpful explanations, tools, and information about the Program and everything it offers.

Small Distributed Generation

Includes projects up to and including 25 kW in size, such as systems on a residence, small business, or other structures with a smaller energy load.

Large Distributed Generation

Includes distributed generation projects greater than 25 kW in size up to and including 5 MW, such as larger businesses, schools, factories, and other buildings with a larger energy load.

Traditional Community solar

Includes community solar projects 5 MW in size or below.

Community-driven community solar

Includes community solar projects up to 5 MW that are intended to provide a more direct and tangible connection and benefits to the communities in which they operate.
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Public schools

Includes any solar project, whether Small or Large Distributed Generation, or community solar projects that serve a public school in Illinois.

Equity Eligible Contractor (EEC)

Includes Distributed Generation and Community Solar projects submitted by EEC Approved Vendors.

Your project site, size, financing options, goals, and other considerations can help determine what type of project makes the most sense for you. Depending on your specific circumstances, a Distributed Generation project installed on your home or property might make the most sense, or a subscription to a local Community Solar project could be preferable. In addition, income-eligible customers should explore solar options through Illinois Solar for All, a state solar incentive program that offers guaranteed savings to income-eligible customers.

Visit the Exploring Distributed Generation or Exploring Community Solar pages for more information on each project type, and some of the relevant considerations for customers. Our new Solar for Schools page provides information, resources, project guides, and more designed to help public school administrators, facilities staff, and district leaders understand how solar projects can reduce long-term energy costs, and support sustainability goals and student learning.

Distributed Generation

Learn about getting solar panels and Distributed Generation.

Explore Distributed Generation

Community Solar

Learn more about Community Solar.

Explore Community Solar