Cook County officials have announced the completion of an assessment focused on expanding access to solar energy through community shared solar projects. The study, led by the Department of Environmental Control in partnership with several organizations, marks the first evaluation of its kind for community solar in the region.
Community shared solar systems allow multiple users—including renters and those unable or unwilling to install rooftop panels—to benefit from renewable energy. According to county estimates, about 75 percent of residents currently cannot access traditional solar options due to financial, technical, or site-related challenges.
The assessment modeled 15 pilot sites across Cook County, including schools, a church, industrial buildings, low-income residences, and public facilities. Findings indicate that community solar can be financially feasible for various types of properties within the county.
“Cook County is firmly committed to the fight against climate change. Community solar is an important component of making all of our communities sustainable while providing jobs and savings to our residents,” said Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.
The report projects that if Cook County captures a significant share of this market over the next three years, it could generate up to 10,000 construction jobs and $1.39 billion in related investment. The economic models used in these case studies are available for download.
While there are currently no operational community solar installations in Cook County, officials believe their research provides practical examples for future projects. Deb Perry, Program Director for the Institute for Sustainable Communities, stated: “Community solar is emerging as the way to expand access to solar energy. Cook County’s exciting approach to jumpstarting the market in Illinois will help to ensure the region is catapulted to a national leader in community solar.”
Illinois’ Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA), passed in December 2016, has established legal support and incentives for community solar statewide. Many recommendations from Cook County’s project were included in this legislation. However, the report notes that further efforts are necessary so that new programs under FEJA enable viable local projects.
Partners involved in this $1.2 million initiative include Elevate Energy, Environmental Law and Policy Center, ComEd, City of Chicago, West Monroe Partners as technical consultant, and numerous stakeholders who contributed expertise throughout the process.
Funding was provided by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Solar Market Pathways program—part of its SunShot Initiative—which aims nationally to reduce costs and encourage adoption of solar power through public-private collaboration. More information about SunShot can be found at energy.gov/sunshot.
