Illinois Solar for All Program Helps Nonprofits Cut Energy Costs

An Illinois clean energy program is helping nonprofit organizations reduce electricity costs through subsidized solar power installations, Kari Lydersen reported for Canary Media.

Solar panels installed through Illinois Solar for All are helping nonprofit organizations reduce operating costs.

One beneficiary is Crisis Nursery in Urbana, Illinois, which provides emergency child care for families experiencing homelessness, domestic violence, and other crises.

The nonprofit installed rooftop solar panels in 2020, generating significant savings on its electricity bills and easing financial pressure.

Crisis Nursery was among the first participants in Illinois Solar for All, a state initiative that expands access to solar energy for lower-income households, nonprofit organizations, and public facilities serving disadvantaged communities.

Participants receive at least 50 percent of the value generated by their solar systems. Eligible smaller buildings pay no upfront costs, while larger projects receive substantial financial assistance.

Although the program, established under legislation that took effect in 2017, initially struggled to attract participants, demand has grown rapidly in recent years.

The Illinois Power Agency reported that more projects were approved during the program's most recent funding cycle—from June 2024 to May 2025—than during its first five years combined.

Last year, the Illinois Commerce Commission approved an additional US$20 million in funding, which the Illinois Power Agency said was fully allocated almost immediately.