Lake County Residents Can Save on Electric Bills Through New Community Solar Program

Lake County residents now have a new opportunity to lower their electricity costs while supporting renewable energy.

The Lake County Board recently endorsed the Community Solar Clearinghouse Solution (CS2), a regional program organized by the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus. The program connects eligible ComEd customers with community solar projects.

Residents who choose to enroll are matched with an approved community solar project through the Illinois Power Agency. Once matched with a project, participants receive a credit on their monthly ComEd electric bill that helps lower their electricity costs, without installing or maintaining solar panels on their home or property. Because each community solar project has a limited number of subscriptions available, participants may be placed on a waitlist and contacted as new subscription opportunities become available.

The Board's endorsement also allows Lake County government to subscribe County facilities to community solar through its utility accounts. By purchasing renewable energy, the County expects to reduce energy costs while advancing its commitment to sustainability. The savings can be reinvested in additional energy efficiency and renewable energy projects that reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

This builds on Lake County's ongoing sustainability efforts. In 2020, the Lake County Board committed to achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions from County government operations by 2040 by reducing emissions and transitioning to 100% renewable electricity.

Two County buildings are currently powered by solar energy. The Regional Operations and Communications Facility has solar and geothermal power. It is Lake County government’s first Net Zero building, meaning the facility doesn’t consume any more energy than is produced from renewable sources. The Central Permit Facility in Libertyville is powered through a ground-mounted solar array of more than 2,000 panels. The Waukegan Administration Building will have solar panels installed on the building in 2026, but the array will not create enough power for the building’s entire energy consumption.

Interested in saving on your electric bill? Visit the CS2 website to check your eligibility, learn more about the program and enroll in a community solar project.

Learn more about Lake County's sustainability initiatives at lakecountyil.gov/sustainability.