Illinois Solar for All: Residential Solar

Illinois Solar for All: Residential Solar is a state-funded solar incentive program managed by the Illinois Power Agency (IPA), an independent agency of the State of Illinois. This initiative is implemented by Elevate, the program administrator, and aims to provide equitable access to solar energy for low-income households across the state. The Residential Solar initiative is one of several under the broader Illinois Solar for All (ILSFA) umbrella and focuses specifically on single-family and multifamily residences. The purpose of the Residential Solar program is to ensure that eligible homeowners and multifamily building owners can access affordable, on-site solar panel installations through partnerships with vetted and qualified solar providers known as Approved Vendors. The program ensures that all participants see savings on their electricity bills as a result of the solar installation. The program also supports Illinois' broader goals to increase renewable energy use and reduce environmental impacts in underserved communities. Eligible participants include owners of single-family homes who earn 80% or less of the Area Median Income (AMI), as well as landlords of single-family units occupied by income-eligible tenants. For multifamily properties with two to four units, at least two must be occupied by households earning 80% or less of the AMI. For properties with five or more units, at least half must meet the income eligibility requirement. Participants are required to work with ILSFA-approved vendors, who are obligated to present standardized disclosure forms before contracts are signed. These forms outline financial obligations, expected savings, and contractual terms, ensuring transparency. There are multiple financing options available to participants. These include purchasing the system outright, leasing the solar system, or entering into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with an Approved Vendor. For most single-family homeowners and small multifamily property owners, there are no upfront costs. Larger multifamily properties may incur a small upfront cost. Additionally, most participants do not pay monthly fees, but if they do, the fees are capped at 50% of the energy value produced by the solar system. The example provided illustrates how a typical participant may save substantially on electricity supply costs after solar installation. The program provides guaranteed savings and maintenance benefits. Participants entering into leases or PPAs receive no-cost routine maintenance for at least 15 years or the duration of the contract. The solar systems are expected to last over 20 years, with warranties covering repairs or replacements. Homeowners who purchase systems are responsible for their own insurance. The program also includes consumer protections, including a 14-day cancellation period and requirements for safe, ethical practices by vendors. Applications are open and accepted on a rolling basis. Interested parties are encouraged to verify eligibility and engage with an Approved Vendor. More information and assistance are available by contacting the Illinois Solar for All office at info@illinoisSFA.com or by calling 1.888.970.4732. The administrative office is located at 322 S. Green St, Suite 300, Chicago, IL 60607.

Applicants are encouraged to compare offers using standardized disclosure forms, and take advantage of the 14-day penalty-free cancellation policy.