Say hello to the sun and goodbye to high solar-powered electricity bills — From the south, Illinois.

Illinois Shines

Illinois is one of the few states that offers Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs). Here’s how it works:

• Homeowners receive one SREC for every 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of energy their system produces
• SRECs can be sold to local power companies at the market rate
• You must work with an approved vendor to qualify

Utility companies in Illinois are subject to Renewable Portfolio Standards, which mandate they generate at least 25% of their energy from renewable resources by 2025. Buying SRECs from homeowners is one way these companies can accomplish that.

Illinois Solar for All

Illinois Solar for All (ILSFA) is a three-part program for low-income residents and nonprofit organizations. Low-income households can participate in community solar programs or install solar panels at a minimum cost.

The program is made possible through partnerships with approved vendors, who receive Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) for their participation. These vendors can sell RECs for a profit and pass these savings to homeowners, eliminating up-front costs and providing guaranteed energy savings.

Illinois Property Tax Breaks

The state of Illinois offers a property tax exemption for homeowners who install a residential solar system. This means that though your property value will increase, your property taxes will not.

Both active and passive solar energy systems are eligible for the tax exemption. For example, if you install a rooftop solar system and a sunroom addition, you may qualify for a tax exemption on both. This can maximize savings for homeowners installing multiple solar elements.

Visit the state of Illinois website to learn more about available tax breaks and apply. You should also check to see if your local government offers additional tax breaks.

Net Metering in Illinois

In addition to taking advantage of solar incentives, you may be able to participate in an Illinois net-metering program, sometimes referred to as net energy metering (NEM). These programs credit solar owners for the unused energy their systems produce. These credits can be applied to future utility bills to reduce energy costs.

Here are the major utility companies in Illinois that participate in net metering. Applications are accepted on a first come, first served basis.

• Ameren Illinois Utilities
• Commonwealth Edison (ComEd)
• MidAmerican Energy Company

Visit the Illinois Attorney General’s website for more information.