Pioneering Sustainability with DSD & General Energy Build 1.54MW Solar Projects in Illinois
In a significant move for public-sector renewable energy, DSD Renewables and General Energy Corporation have partnered to deploy a 1.54 MW portfolio of rooftop photovoltaic systems across three Illinois park districts. The installations in Elmhurst, Sycamore, and Urbana are set to generate approximately 1.8 GWh of clean electricity annually, powering park operations and establishing a new precedent for solar adoption in the state’s public spaces.
The projects are financed through 25-year power purchase agreements (PPAs) managed by DSD, which eliminates any upfront development and construction costs for the park districts. This financial model proved crucial for enabling the project.
“Thanks to DSD’s partnership and financing model, we’re able to provide more impactful and valuable projects in our region,” noted Tony Jaswal, Vice President of General Energy. General Energy is a member of DSD’s Developer Network, which equips regional developers with financing and tools to expand their portfolios. DSD will oversee the long-term management of the sites.
Project Details and Timelines
The 1.54 MW portfolio consists of five distinct rooftop installations:
- Elmhurst: A 674.96 kW system was successfully completed in July 2025. This installation is a key component of the overall portfolio and is now operational.
- Sycamore: Two systems totaling 331.58 kW were installed at the community center (221.25 kW) and the maintenance building (110.33 kW). Construction began in June 2024 with completion anticipated by fall 2024.
- Urbana: This district contracted for two installations in June 2024, one at its planning and operations building (217.12 kW) and another at its health and wellness building (270.22 kW). The combined 487.34 kW capacity is expected to be operational by the end of 2025.
Progressive Business Solutions also served as an energy consultant, assisting with the evaluation and contracting for the Urbana and Sycamore projects.
A New Benchmark for Community and Environment
This initiative not only reduces the carbon footprint of the parks but also serves as a visible demonstration of clean energy integration. Katherine Lillydahl, Sr. Account Executive for DSD’s Developer Network, emphasized the project’s broader impact.
“Illinois has a proven history of implementing energy efficiency programs and these projects will only add to that legacy. Powering these spaces with renewable power is a logical choice as it complements the park districts’ mission of promoting health, wellness and environmental awareness,” she said. “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.”
Sources
- DSD and General Energy Deploying 1.54 MW of Solar for Illinois Park Districts
- DSD Renewables News Archive
- DSD Commercial, Industrial and Municipal Solar Partners
- Solar News | Go Solar Today
- Projects – Solar Builder Magazine
- Solar Farm Market to Hit $85.2B in 2024 – EIN Presswire
- Oak Brook Park District Board Packet July 21, 2025