Harness the Power of Your Land:

Solar Leasing Opportunities in Illinois

 

Turn Your Unused Land into a Financial Asset

Are you a landowner in Illinois with underutilized or unused land? Solar leasing is your opportunity to contribute to America’s clean energy future while securing a steady and reliable source of income. Whether you’re planning for retirement or looking for financial security, leasing your land for solar energy is a smart and sustainable investment.

Why Lease Your Land for Solar in Illinois?

1. Financial Security and Stability
  • Guaranteed Long-Term Income: Solar leases typically offer predictable payments over 20-25 years, providing you with peace of mind and financial security.
  • Supplement Retirement Planning: Transform your land into a dependable revenue stream to support your retirement goals.
2. Make Use of Underutilized Land
  • Optimize Land Usage: Fields, pastures, or underperforming agricultural land can generate substantial income when leased for solar installations.
  • Minimal Maintenance: Solar farms require very little of your time or labor, leaving you free to focus on other endeavors.
3. Support American Energy
  • Energy Independence: Join the movement toward reducing reliance on foreign energy sources. Solar energy represents a clean, renewable solution for powering America.
  • Sustainability Leadership: Contribute to Illinois’ and the nation’s goal of transitioning to renewable energy and combating climate change.
Income Potential

Landowners can earn up to $1,000–$2,000 per acre annually by leasing their land to solar developers.

Tax Advantages

Solar leasing may provide tax benefits, including reductions in property taxes for renewable energy projects. [Link to bottom of page ILSFA]

Environmental Impact

A typical solar farm can offset thousands of tons of CO₂ annually, equivalent to taking hundreds of cars off the road. [Link to blog]

Local Job Creation

Supporting solar development creates jobs in Illinois, boosting local economies. [link to blog]

Is Your Land Eligible?

Solar developers are actively seeking:

  • Flat or gently sloping land with access to sunlight.
  • 5+ acres of underutilized or unused land.
  • Proximity to utility infrastructure, such as substations or power lines.

Illinois & Solar Energy

Key Facts
  • Illinois ranks among the top U.S. states for solar energy potential due to its flat terrain and strong infrastructure.
  • The state has ambitious renewable energy goals, targeting 100% clean energy by 2050 under the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA).
  • Solar energy is the fastest-growing renewable energy source in the U.S., contributing to over 250,000 jobs nationwide.
Sources
  • U.S. Department of Energy
  • Illinois Power Agency
  • National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)

What is the Illinois Solar for All (ILSFA) program?

Illinois Solar for All (ILSFA) is a state initiative designed to make solar energy more accessible and affordable for income-eligible residents, non-profits, and public facilities. The program offers several sub-programs, including Community Solar, which allows participants to benefit from solar energy without installing panels on their property.

Illinois Solar for All

Frequently Asked Questions

How much income can I expect from solar leasing?

Income depends on the size and location of your land, but Illinois landowners typically receive $1,000–$2,000 per acre per year.

Will solar panels damage my land?

No. Solar panels are installed on mounts, preserving your land’s condition. At the end of the lease, the land can often be restored to its original state.

Can I still use my land while leasing it for solar?

Yes, some solar projects are compatible with dual-use practices, such as grazing livestock under the panels.