Illinois' Solar Bill of Rights' Enhances Opportunities for Cooperative Members

24 Apr 2024

USA - The Illinois state House of Representatives recently introduced HB5315, also known as the "Solar Bill of Rights," which aims to enhance opportunities for rural electric cooperative members to install solar systems.

This forward-thinking legislation mandates that more than 50 cooperatives and municipal utilities in Illinois allow net metering until a specific threshold of solar penetration is reached. It also requires the development of a unified solar policy approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission. By providing consistent and fair compensation terms and simplifying insurance requirements and interconnection processes, the bill offers substantial support for cooperative members, enhancing their ability to adopt solar energy solutions confidently.

This measure aims to create a more equitable and accessible environment for all cooperative members, helping cooperatives expand their services and better meet their members' needs.

With cooperatives already playing a significant role in the state's energy landscape, this legislation is poised to further enhance its contribution to Illinois' clean energy goals.