Illinois Commerce Commission Clears Path to Accelerate Clean Energy Deployment Before Federal Tax Credits Expire

The Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), Illinois Solar Energy and Storage Association (ISEA), the Coalition for Community Solar Access (CCSA), and Advanced Energy United applauded the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) for approving key updates to the 2024 – 2026 Illinois Power Agency’s Long-Term Renewable Resources Procurement Plan (LTRRPP) to expand solar capacity and protect Illinois consumers from rising energy costs.

The ICC’s decision authorizes an immediate expansion of the Adjustable Block Program by 100 percent — doubling community, commercial, and small-scale solar categories — and advancing new competitive procurements for utility-scale ahead of the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) phase-out. The ruling enables developers to bring hundreds of additional megawatts of affordable, clean power online while securing lower costs for ratepayers through efficient use of existing funds.

“This decision is a major win for Illinois’ clean energy future,” said Andrew Linhares, Senior Manager for the Central Region at SEIA. “By expanding solar capacity now, the Commission is helping ensure that Illinoisans benefit from lower costs, greater reliability, and good-paying local jobs. It’s exactly the kind of forward-thinking action we need to keep Illinois on track as a national leader in renewable energy.”

Illinois’ approach stands out nationally. While many states have slowed procurement in response to federal uncertainty, Governor Pritzker’s administration and the ICC have moved swiftly to accelerate renewable energy investments that create local jobs, stabilize bills, and strengthen grid reliability. The expanded capacity will also prioritize projects that can begin construction before the ITC sunset, ensuring maximum economic value for Illinois consumers and workers.

“This is decisive, forward-looking leadership from the Illinois Commerce Commission,” said Stephanie Burgos-Veras, Senior Manager of Equity Programs at CCSA. “By acting now, Illinois is ensuring that residents and businesses benefit from the lowest-cost solar projects while federal incentives remain available — cementing the state’s position as a national model for smart, affordable clean energy growth.”

“With this action, Illinois is showing how smart, proactive policy can turn clean energy goals into real economic value,” said Lesley McCain, Executive Director of ISEA. “By expanding solar capacity now, the Commission is helping capture remaining federal incentives, lower long-term energy costs, and strengthen the grid for Illinois families and businesses.”

“This decision positions Illinois at the forefront of smart energy planning,” said John Albers, Director at Advanced Energy United. “By accelerating renewable procurement now, the Commission is helping avoid future price shocks, create a more reliable grid, and attract private investment that keeps energy dollars working here in Illinois. It’s a clear example of how policy leadership can translate into lower costs and stronger energy security for everyone.”

Illinois currently ranks among the top five states nationwide for community solar deployment, with more than 700 MW of installed capacity and hundreds more in development. Today’s ICC ruling will allow the state to continue to set the pace for the Midwest and beyond.

Coalition for Community Solar Access | https://communitysolaraccess.org/