Standard Solar, a developer and owner of commercial and community solar assets has finished building its first solar project in Illinois—a 1-MW ground-mounted solar array located at the Central Permit Facility (CPF) in Libertyville, Lake County.
Solar Array Powers Lake County CPF Facility, Boosting Sustainability
In collaboration with WCP Solar, the solar array will supply renewable energy to the Central Permit Facility (CPF) supporting the county's long-term sustainability objectives. The CPF facility is home to Lake County’s planning, building and development department, as well as the stormwater management commission and health department.
“It is extremely gratifying to partner with Lake County and Standard Solar in the development of this exciting solar project. Helping the community of Lake County to reduce its demand for fossil fuel while being a leader in the renewable energy space is tremendously encouraging,” said Dr Everton Walters, President of WCP Solar.
Lake County solar project (Image: Collected)
A ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the completion of the solar array, attended by community leaders, project partners and the public. The event emphasized the role of public-private partnerships in driving renewable energy initiatives.
“Great partnerships lead to great projects, and our collaboration with WCP Solar and Lake County exemplifies that. This installation helps Lake County achieve its clean energy goals and reflects Standard Solar’s broader commitment to expanding renewable energy across Illinois. We’re eager to build on this momentum and bring more impactful projects to Lake County and the great state of Illinois.” said Harry Benson, Director of Business Development for Standard Solar.
Solar Array to Generate 1.45M kWh Annually, Advancing Net-Zero Goal
Once operational later this year, the system is expected to produce around 1,452,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean energy each year, helping to reduce carbon emissions and lower the county's energy expenses. This milestone brings Lake County closer to its goal of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions for government operations, as outlined in a resolution passed by the Lake County Board in 2020.
“By adopting solar power, we’re not only showcasing our dedication to combating climate change through the expansion of renewable energy and the decarbonisation of our local energy sector, but we’re also achieving significant cost savings for Lake County. Our partnership with Standard Solar represents a meaningful step forward, both environmentally and economically.” said Sandy Hart, Lake County Board Chair.
Illinois' solar market is expanding rapidly, fueled by state policies and incentives to increase renewable energy across the state. The goal is for 25% of Illinois' energy to come from renewable sources by 2025, with solar playing a key role. Currently, Illinois ranks among the Top 15 states for solar growth potential with over 500 megawatts of installed solar capacity.
“This supportive regulatory environment and financial incentives, supported by strong commitments from local governments and communities, create a favourable environment for further solar developments.” Harry Benson, Standard Solar’s Director of Business Development added.
Standard Solar’s Commitment to Renewable Solutions
Standard Solar is a portfolio company of Brookfield, one of the largest global owners and operators of renewable power and climate transition assets. With 20 years of sustainable growth and a strong in-house and tax equity investment capital base, the company has become a national leader in developing, funding and managing commercial and community solar assets.
Standard Solar is driving the nation’s energy transformation by leveraging its project development capabilities, financial strength, and technical expertise to provide solar and solar + storage solutions to businesses, institutions, farms, governments, communities and utilities. As a recognized financial partner with extensive resources, the company owns and operates over 350 megawatts of solar energy across the U.S.