Aspen Power Set to Procure Community Solar Portfolio of 19 MW in Illinois - SolarQuarter
Aspen Power Set to Procure Community Solar Portfolio of 19 MW in Illinois - SolarQuarter
Aspen Power, a distributed generation platform, announced its partnership with a developer to procure 20 community solar projects totaling up to 19 MW, primarily located in Illinois. This portfolio includes projects at different developmental stages, including those under construction and scheduled for commissioning within 2024.
The growth of community solar in Illinois has surged in recent years, driven by the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA). CEJA implements measures aimed at increasing access to solar energy for low- and moderate-income communities. Aspen Power’s acquisition mirrors the favorable market environment in the state, fostered by ongoing policy backing.
This acquisition marks another step in Aspen Power’s expansion into states where it owns and operates community solar projects. With the inclusion of the Illinois portfolio, Aspen now manages community solar projects in five states with active programs: Maine, New York, Maryland, and California. Nationally, Aspen has spearheaded the development or acquisition of hundreds of solar projects spanning 24 states. Aspen collaborates with Common Energy to facilitate subscription and management of these community solar projects. Through this partnership, local households have the opportunity to participate in the community solar program, reducing their electricity expenses and contributing to emissions reduction efforts simultaneously.
“We are excited to announce plans to acquire these solar projects in Illinois. Expanding Aspen’s geographical portfolio plays a significant role in advancing decarbonization and increasing access to green energy in new communities,” said Dan Gulick, Senior Vice President, Community Solar, Aspen Power.
“We are excited to partner with Aspen Power on this portfolio,” added Richard Keiser, Founder and CEO, Common Energy. “These projects will bring real economic benefits to Illinois residents and low-income families, and real environmental benefits to the broader community,” he added.
Related Knowledge Center: ENERGY BASICS: solar
Declining costs and government encouragement have resulted in a rapid increase in solar energy production in the United States over the past 10 years, although solar’s share remains small: 1.6 percent of all electricity generation in 2018. That rapid growth is projected to continue.