Naperville Officials Unveil 3,348 Panel Solar Energy System

NAPERVILLE, IL — City officials, along with representatives of the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency officially unveiled Naperville’s new solar energy system that boasts more than 3,300 solar panels and that can fully provide electricity to 180 city residents each year.

The facility, which is located at the Springbrook water treatment plant at 3712 Plainfield-Naperville Rd., is situated on 4 ½ acres and includes 3,348 solar panels. The site started operating in late February and is a testament to Naperville’s commitment to sustainable living as well as ongoing partnerships to advance clean energy across the region and state, officials said Friday.

The solar system project is being done through a concerted effort by the City of Naperville, IMEA as well as SOL Systems and GRNE Solar and will generate 1.684 million kilowatts per year. Residents can view the system operating in real time at this site.

“Naperville is a city that has always cared about sustainability, and I am thrilled to see this solar energy system come to life,” Naperville Mayor Steve Chirico said in a news release. “Clean energy is critical to our community’s future, and sustainable solutions are best achieved through partnerships, like the one that made this solar energy system possible.”

In addition to the solar energy facility, the city’s electric utility is also offering grants for programable thermostats, attic insulation and windows – which were approved by the city council. The utility is also offering rebates for the installation of solar panels for residents and businesses, the city said. More information about those programs can be found here.

“The Illinois Municipal Electric Agency is grateful to the City of Naperville for its commitment to make space available for this project,” Kevin Gaden, president & CEO of the IMEA said in a news release. “Hosting this solar array is another feather in the cap of this utility and the people of this great community. This solar energy system is very tangible evidence of Naperville’s and the IMEA’s long-term commitment to serve the needs of electric customers.”