Solar programs in Illinois | Solar energy Illinois rebate program

Solar programs in Illinois | Solar energy Illinois rebate program

July 14, 2023

Here is a summary of the Illinois solar program in 2023:

  • The Illinois Shines program is a state-administered incentive program that supports the development of new solar energy generation in Illinois.
  • The program offers two main incentives:
    • Solar Renewable Energy Certificates (SRECs): Under the SREC program, you can earn one SREC for each megawatt hour (MWh) of electricity your solar system produces over 15 years.
    • Net metering: Net metering allows you to sell excess electricity back to your utility company for credit on your electric bill.
  • The Illinois Solar for All program is a state-funded program that provides financial assistance to low-income Illinois residents who want to install solar panels.
  • The federal solar tax credit is a federal tax credit that can be claimed by homeowners who install solar panels on their homes.

In total, these incentives can make solar energy a very affordable option for homeowners and businesses in Illinois.

Here are some additional details about the Illinois solar program in 2023:

  • The SREC program: The SREC program is a market-based incentive program that is designed to increase the demand for solar energy in Illinois. SRECs are tradable certificates that represent the generation of 1 megawatt hour (MWh) of solar electricity. Solar system owners can sell their SRECs to utilities or other SREC buyers.
  • Net metering: Net metering is a billing mechanism that allows solar system owners to sell excess electricity back to their utility company for credit on their electric bill. This means that solar system owners can offset the cost of their electricity bill with the money they earn from selling their excess electricity.
  • The Illinois Solar for All program: The Illinois Solar for All program is a state-funded program that provides financial assistance to low-income Illinois residents who want to install solar panels. The program provides grants and loans to help cover the cost of solar installation.
  • The federal solar tax credit: The federal solar tax credit is a tax credit that can be claimed by homeowners who install solar panels on their homes. The tax credit is worth 30% of the cost of the solar system, up to a maximum of $2,600 for homeowners.