Community Solar in Evanston

The City is partnering with MC-Squared, the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, and energy provider Soltage to bring Evanston residents the opportunity to participate in community solar. Evanston Residents can now enjoy the benefits of solar without the cost of installation. By subscribing residents will save 10% of the community solar credits they receive on their bill. Soltage and MC Squared are also offering 1 income qualifying subscription for every 20 regular subscriptions. Additionally, for every 25 subscribers the city will give away a $50 gift card. Please note there are a limited number of subscriptions, and participants will be enrolled on a first come first serve basis.

Some of the benefits of Community Solar include:

1. Subscribers will receive a guaranteed 10% savings of the community solar credits they receive on their ComEd bill.
2. Income qualifying residents will receive 100% of the community solar credits that will be applied to the energy supply portion of their bills. (Evanston Benefit Card, Parks and Recreation Scholarship, and independent income verifications for eligibility)
3. Community Solar subscribers support solar development within Illinois.
4. The program helps reduce the city's carbon emissions, which supports CARP goals.
5. No credit checks, sign-up/cancellation fees.

You may choose a community solar offer from other Approved Vendors. For a complete list of your options, visit Illinois Shines.

 Click the button below to sign up for community solar

On-site Solar in Evanston

• Solarize Chicagoland is a group buy solar program that allows residents, for a limited time, to sign-up to have solar installed at bulk prices. More details can be found on Solarize Chicagoland's webpage. The City will co-host multiple informational webinars, called "Solar Power Hours," for residents.

• The Evanston Solar Installation Checklist, Permit Application and Inspection Requirements can be found here: Evanston Solar Checklist and Permit Application 

• Schedule an Inspection - Call 3-1-1 in Evanston or dial 847-448-4311 outside of Evanston. In order to schedule an inspection please have your address and permit number ready and available to give to City staff.

Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems on Evanston homes and businesses help decarbonize Evanston’s electricity supply and provide distributed resource generation. Solar thermal systems provide hot water without burning natural gas, further reducing our community’s carbon footprint. 

In recognition of Evanston's commitment to solar energy, in October 2017, the City was awarded a Gold designation through the U.S Department of Energy's SolSmart designation program. The SolSmart certification ensures that communities are leading the way in solar power use and effectiveness.  

Solar Information and Resources

• Solar Energy Basics Videos

• Illinois Homeowners' Solar Rights Act. Protects homeowner's rights to install solar panels.

• Active Solar Installers/ Business Members

• How to Choose a Qualified Solar Installer

• Cook County Solar Energy Webpage

Interested in learning about the solar potential of your rooftop? The Project Sunroof tool provides an estimate of the solar potential of your rooftop.

Community Choice Electricity Aggregation

For more information and updates regarding the Evanston Aggregation Program Click Here