The Illinois Climate Bank has approved a resolution to authorize loan funds of up to $1.6 million for three community-based solar projects owned by Green Energy Justice Cooperative (GEJC), a project launched by Blacks in Green (BIG), in 2022. This funding increases the total funding to $2.9 million, a portion of which is privately funded. The money will be used to support the pre-development phase of the project, including public outreach, an interconnection study, and a deposit for renewable energy credits awarded through the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA). The projects, located in Aurora, Naperville, and Romeoville, Illinois, will each generate 3 megawatts and provide a community stake in clean energy generation. Once completed, they will reduce the disproportionate energy burden in BIPOC and low-income households while providing a significant benefit for the community.
Solar Dominates US Energy Capacity Growth
The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) has published data showing that solar accounted for over 75% of US electrical generating
