This Community-Driven-Community-Solar case study was originally published by the Illinois Power Agency.
To view the Illinois Shines Program’s case studies, please visit the About page on the Program website
Excerpt: For communities like Rockford, renewable energy projects provide more than clean, sustainable energy. They also create new jobs, economic activity, engagement with community organizations and partners, positive environmental impacts, and more. This case study highlights how local community leaders partnered with community-minded solar vendors to bring an Illinois Shines Community-Driven Community Solar (CDCS) project to Rockford to deliver significant community benefits and save local subscribers a projected $4 million in electricity costs.
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This case study, published by the Illinois Power Agency, highlights the impact of Rock Cut Solar, a 35-acre, 6.2 MW Community-Driven Community Solar project electrified in August 2025. Originally developed by Trajectory, built by Illinois union workers, and now operated by Summit Ridge Energy, Rock Cut Solar exemplifies a community-focused approach to development—built through partnerships with local leaders and organizations to deliver locally generated energy and meaningful financial benefits to the greater Rockford area.
Read the case study: Rockford, IL Achieves Affordable Clean Energy and Community Benefits Through Innovative Illinois Shines Solar Development, by Illinois Shines and Illinois Power Agency
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