DSD Renewables (DSD) has teamed up with General Energy Corporation on a 1.54 MW portfolio of rooftop solar projects across three park districts in Illinois. Located in Elmhurst, Sycamore, and Urbana, the installations are expected to generate around 1.8 GWh of solar energy annually, helping power park operations and reduce their carbon footprint.
Setting a New Benchmark: Solar Energy in Illinois Parks
These projects will introduce solar energy to Illinois’ park districts on an unprecedented scale, setting a new benchmark for sustainable practices in public spaces throughout the state and across the country.
The new solar projects in Illinois parks are setting a standard for integrating clean energy into public spaces.
“Illinois has a proven history of implementing energy efficiency programs and these projects will only add to that legacy. Powering these spaces with solar energy is a logical choice as it complements the park districts’ mission of promoting health, wellness and environmental awareness.
“These projects present an opportunity for visitors to learn how clean energy can be seamlessly integrated into our everyday lives and together with General Energy, we’re happy to be a part of making that possible,” said Katherine Lillydahl, Sr. Account Executive for DSD’s Developer Network.
Illinois Park Districts Expand Rooftop Solar Installations
The portfolio includes five rooftop solar installations across the park districts:
- Elmhurst: A 723.93 kW system is planned, with construction scheduled to start in September 2024 and finish by summer 2025. This system is projected to generate 793.5 MWh annually.
- Sycamore: Installations at the community center (221.25 kW) and maintenance building (110.33 kW) began construction in June 2024. Combined, these 331.58 kW systems are anticipated to be finished by fall 2024 and will generate around 397.2 MWh per year.
- Urbana: Contracted in June 2024, this portfolio will include systems at its planning and operations building (217.12 kW) and health and wellness building (270.22 kW). These installations, totaling 487.34 kW, are expected to produce 594.8 MWh annually and be operational by the end of 2025.
DSD Will Fund Projects With Power Purchase Agreements
DSD will fund the solar project development through 25-year power purchase agreements, relieving the park districts of any development and construction costs.
“Thanks to DSD’s partnership and financing model, we’re able to provide more impactful and valuable projects in our region,” said Tony Jaswal, Vice President of General Energy.
General Energy is a member of DSD’s Developer Network, a partner program that provides regional developers with the essential tools and financing to grow their portfolios and businesses. DSD will assist General Energy through the distributed solar development phase before taking on long-term management of the sites upon completion. Progressive Business Solutions also contributed as an energy consultant, aiding in the evaluation and contracting of the Urbana and Sycamore projects.