Equity Solar Illinois (ESI) has successfully energized Illinois' first Community Solar Garden in the Equity Eligible Contractor category. The solar project, known as Cattail Solar, represents a significant step in advancing the state’s participation in renewables and expanding its clean energy workforce.
“We recognize education and access to opportunities are barriers to participating in clean energy,” said Rena Henderson Mason, ESI Principal. “We’re working to overcome those barriers and bring economic savings and development opportunities to the communities in which we operate.”
Community Solar is a program that allows residents and businesses to take part in the renewable energy transition and lower their electricity costs without installing panels on their roofs. Participants who subscribe to a Community Solar Garden receive bill credit savings on their electric bill. Cattail Solar has 15 subscribers, consisting of Illinois cities and small businesses.
Other key project details of Cattail Solar:
With a capacity of 3.26dc MW, Cattail will generate enough energy to power over 560 homes.
Located in Fulton, IL, the project consists of 5,616 solar modules covering nearly 15 acres.
The site has been seeded with native pollinator habitat, which supports critical pollinators like butterflies and bees.
Cattail Solar is the first of many EEC projects for ESI. It’s not the only way the company is connecting and making an impact with Illinois residents. Through workforce development opportunities, small business support, and meaningful local donations, ESI is excited to create a lasting impact that goes far beyond clean electricity.
“From rural Illinois to the City of Chicago, we believe everyone should be able to participate in and benefit from the clean energy revolution,” said Marcellus H. Moore, Jr., ESI Principal. “We’re excited about this first project and will be continually working to connect and balance our efforts in rural areas with opportunities in urban areas throughout the state.”
About ESI: Equity Solar Illinois was founded in 2022 as a partnership between Southside Chicago community leaders and solar development firm US Solar. Its mission is to advance clean, renewable energy options in the state. ESI is committed to engaging the communities we serve, from local farmers to nonprofit leaders, to ensure all voices are heard and included in Illinois’ clean energy transition.
About US Solar: Founded in 2014, US Solar is a national developer, owner, operator, and financier of solar generation and storage projects. Visit www.us-solar.com for more.
