Illinois American Water energizes first solar project

Illinois American Water, the largest investor-owned water utility in Illinois, and Sol Systems, cut the ribbon on the water utility's first solar project located in Champaign County, Ill. The 2.3-megawatt (MW) project includes bifacial panels, single-axis trackers, and the installation of native grasses to promote local habitat growth.

“This is a really exciting project because of its multi-faceted impact to the communities we serve in Champaign County,” said Brent O’Neill, director of engineering for Illinois American Water. “Not only did the project support local jobs, but the resulting solar energy helps to reduce operational costs which benefits our customers and reduces our environmental footprint.”