As previously announced, due to a simultaneous spike in Small DG Part I applications and Part II application submissions, including a high volume of applications with battery schematics, the turnaround time for Part I and Part II application reviews is currently far beyond its expected 10-day timeframe. Sustained high volumes of Small DG submissions continue to drive the backlog. Currently, Part I application review time is 14 weeks and Part II application review time is 10 weeks. To address the queues and resume meeting the two-week processing target, the Program Administrator is:
- Expanding the Application Processing team
- Implementing automated review enhancements to improve efficiency and increase application review capacity
The Program Administrator anticipates a return to the target two-week review time for Part I applications by mid-October and Part II by the end of November.
Part II projects that contain a battery or storage component must undergo additional technical review of the battery schematic diagram, which may extend the initial application review timeline. To support this, the Program has added technical review capacity in recent weeks, including:
- 200+ hours per month for battery schematic review
- Moving battery schematic reviews to the Portal instead of in offline processes
These changes are expected to significantly reduce admin time and decrease turnaround for review.
The Program Administrator continues to prioritize the review of applications based upon the submission date and is available to support AVs and Designees with application questions at [email protected] or by phone at (877) 783-1820. The status of individual applications can be searched using the Project Look Up Tool on the Program website. Additionally, the Program reminds stakeholders to review the Application Tips and Tricks to avoid Need Info requests that delay application review and approval.
Thank you!
Illinois Shines Program
[email protected]