Community Solar Energy Sovereignty Grant Program

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity is offering the Community Solar Energy Sovereignty Grant Program as part of its broader efforts under the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act. This grant program aims to promote community ownership of renewable energy and to foster economic benefits for historically disadvantaged communities in Illinois. The funding will support the planning and pre-development of community solar projects designed to serve multiple local customers, including low-income households. The program provides awards ranging from $50,000 to $1,000,000 to eligible applicants. A total of $8.5 million in state funds is available, with approximately 40 awards expected to be distributed. Funding is intended to cover project phases focused on planning, feasibility, and pre-development. Allowable activities include site identification, preliminary site assessments, outreach, cooperative model development, procurement, permitting, and related pre-construction work. Construction and implementation costs are not allowed under this opportunity. Eligible applicants include community-based organizations as defined by the Illinois Power Agency, certain public entities where no community-based organization exists, and technical service providers partnering with such organizations. All applicants must demonstrate robust community engagement and a long-term commitment to the communities they aim to serve. Projects should target equity investment eligible communities, which include Restore, Reinvest, Renew areas and Environmental Justice communities in Illinois. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis from May 27, 2025 through December 31, 2025, and awards will be made until funds are exhausted. Applicants are encouraged to submit early to maximize their competitiveness. The application process includes submission of a standard grant application, budget, project narrative, community solar program-specific application, timeline, proof of site control, and supporting letters. Proposals will be evaluated on need, capacity, quality, and cost effectiveness. Key evaluation factors include the project’s alignment with community needs, ability to generate community ownership and benefits, leveraging of workforce development programs, and cost efficiency. Applicants scoring 75% or higher will be invited to negotiation meetings to finalize grant terms. For questions, applicants may contact Matthew Swaine at Matthew.Swaine@Illinois.gov. The application portal is accessible at https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/963c1448a280491ab202af45ce3e62c6. Technical assistance is available throughout the process, including webinars, office hours, and one-on-one sessions. Final applications must be submitted by 5:00 PM CST on December 31, 2025.