An Illinois community solar project by Ampion.
On Oct. 17, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved key updates to the 2024 – 2026 Illinois Power Agency’s Long-Term Renewable Resources Procurement Plan (LTRRPP) to expand solar capacity and protect Illinois consumers from rising energy costs.
The ICC’s decision authorizes an immediate expansion of the Adjustable Block Program by 100% — doubling community, commercial and small-scale solar categories — and advancing new competitive procurements for utility-scale ahead of the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) phase-out. The ruling enables developers to bring hundreds of additional megawatts of affordable, clean power online while securing lower costs for ratepayers through efficient use of existing funds.
“This decision is a major win for Illinois’ clean energy future,” said Andrew Linhares, senior manager for the Central Region at SEIA. “By expanding solar capacity now, the Commission is helping ensure that Illinoisans benefit from lower costs, greater reliability and good-paying local jobs. It’s exactly the kind of forward-thinking action we need to keep Illinois on track as a national leader in renewable energy.”
Illinois’ approach stands out nationally. While many states have slowed procurement in response to federal uncertainty, Governor Pritzker’s administration and the ICC have moved swiftly to accelerate renewable energy investments that create local jobs, stabilize bills, and strengthen grid reliability. The expanded capacity will also prioritize projects that can begin construction before the ITC sunset, ensuring maximum economic value for Illinois consumers and workers.
News item from Solar Powers Illinois
Kelsey,
I own farmland in Illinois and am considering an opportunity to rent my land to a community solar developer. Their initial offer is lower than those being made before the “Big Beautiful Bill” removed the tax incentives. They indicated they would revisit their offer if the tax laws changed. As your article points out, the state of IL has expanded its incentives. Do you have any data that indicates how this new IL program compares to the tax incentive that was taken away? I have searched the internet to try and understand if developers are now eligible for incentives that replace dollar for dollar what was taken away or if the new program only replaces some of it. If you don’t have this information, is there someone/somewhere you recommend I contact? Thank you for your help.