In 2025, the Park District in Illinois embarked on a transformative journey to enhance its sustainability initiatives by installing a rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system. The project was financed through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), allowing the Park District to leverage renewable energy without the upfront capital investment typically required for solar installations.
Project Goals:
The primary objectives of the Park District’s solar project included:
• Reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the carbon footprint of park operations.
• Lowering energy costs and stabilizing long-term energy expenditures.
• Promoting renewable energy awareness within the community.
The Park District agreed to purchase the electricity generated by the solar system at a predetermined rate, typically lower than their existing utility rate. The agreement includes performance guarantees, ensuring that the system operates at expected efficiency levels.
Project Details:
• System Size: 675 kW
• Anticipated Annual Production: 722,474 kWh/yr
• Annual Environmental Impact: The solar system will offset the facility’s carbon footprint by 485 tons, equivalent to the carbon dioxide emissions from 54,619 gallons of gasoline.
• Role: Developer & EPC
