Through the enactment of CEJA, a Public Schools category was added to the Illinois Shines program in 2021. Since its addition to the Program, the category has seen fewer project submissions than anticipated, leaving leftover capacity. Though more than 90 projects by public schools have been developed through Illinois Shines, many of them have been submitted in project categories other than Public Schools.
The IPA recognizes the multi-layered decision-making structure, complex budget considerations, and tight timelines that public schools face when considering building enhancement projects, like solar energy.
For Program Year 2025-26, the Program Administrator will implement a focused Public Schools Outreach Action Plan designed to support school decision-makers in submitting projects into the Illinois Shines program. Implementation strategies will include targeted relationship building with public school professionals, education association engagement, conference attendance, and one-on-one meetings with priority schools and districts. Roles, goals, strategies, timelines, and planned touchpoints are detailed in the official plan.
Thank you!
Illinois Shines Program
[email protected]