Community Renewable Generation Project Rules

Illinois's most recent rules for community renewable generation projects are derived from Public Act 104-0458 (titled the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act), which modified the rules outlined in Public Act 102-0662 (titled the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act) of 2021. Key changes include increasing the maximum capacity from 5 MW to 10 MW (both individual and colocated), adding requirements that projects over 3 MW must adhere to certain project labor agreements, and lowering the maximum fee for net crediting (consolidated billing) to 1%.Community solar projects are owned and operated by third parties, which offer subscriptions to individuals and businesses. Bill credits are provided by the electric utility at a rate which includes energy supply, transmission, and capacity values but excludes delivery service costs.

Incentives for community solar projects are provided through the Illinois Shines and Illinois Solar for All programs, which purchase RECs from project developers.Public Act 102-0662 requires utilities to offer consolidated billing for community solar subscribers. As of early 2025, Commonwealth Edison offers consolidated billing; Ameren customers' community solar provider may bill the subscription fee or consolidated billing may be offered.