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), enabling the Park District to adopt renewable energy without the upfront capital investment typically required for solar systems. 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 to ensure the system operates at expected efficiency levels.
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.
Rooftop Solar PV System Details:
- System Size: 217 kW
- Anticipated Annual Production: 251,591 kWh/yr
- Annual Environmental Impact: The solar system will offset the facility’s carbon footprint by 169 tons, equivalent to the carbon dioxide emissions from 19,020 gallons of gasoline.
- Role: Developer & EPC
