Energy Storage System Portfolio Standard
Illinois is requiring the Illinois Power Agency to procure at least 1,038 MW of utility-scale energy storage by 2026, with a goal of 3,000 MW total in service by the end of 2030. While this program targets large storage projects rather than residential systems, the expansion of grid-scale storage will support a more reliable and affordable electricity supply for Illinois residents.
The Illinois Power Agency will conduct competitive procurements for utility-scale energy storage projects, with the initial procurement of at least 1,038 MW split between MISO (450 MW) and PJM (588 MW) zones, due by August 26, 2026. Projects must achieve commercial operation by December 31, 2029, or by December 31, 2030 if the IPA proposes an extension; additional procurements are scheduled for 2027 and 2028 to reach the 3,000 MW cumulative target. Interested developers should monitor the Procurement Administrator website for solicitation details and requirements.
The Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (Public Act 104-0458) directs the IPA to develop and execute a competitive energy storage procurement plan. The initial 1,038 MW procurement is split geographically (450 MW MISO, 588 MW PJM) with commercial operation deadlines of December 31, 2029 (or potentially December 31, 2030 with IPA approval if interconnection or permitting delays occur). Sequential procurements in 2027 and 2028 are required to reach 3,000 MW in service by end of 2030; funding and procurement administration details are managed through the IPA's competitive process managed by the Procurement Administrator.
Program details
- Program ID
- 22801
- Last updated
- 1/22/2026
Eligibility
- Sectors
- investor-owned utility
- Technologies
- lithium-ion
Program summary
Public Act 104-0458, the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act, requires the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) to develop an energy storage resources procurement plan.
The IPA must conduct an initial procurement for at least 1,038 MW of standalone storage by August 26, 2026. The capacity for this procurement will be split between the MISO and PJM zones, with 450 MW in MISO and 588 MW in PJM. The contracted storage resources must achieve commercial operation before December 31, 2029, or another date proposed by the IPA that is not later than December 31, 2030.
The IPA must then conduct additional procurements in 2027 and 2028 so that a cumulative amount of 3,000 MW of storage enters service by December 31, 2030 (subject to conditions for delay due to interconnection or permitting issues).
Contact & resources
- Additional resources
Please verify current program details with the administering agency before making any financial decisions.
