Government solar energy projects across Missouri and Illinois are growing rapidly as local leaders recognize the power of solar to cut costs, promote sustainability, and better serve their communities. Installing solar panels for government buildings enables cities, schools, and public service organizations to reinvest savings into programs that benefit residents and strengthen their local economies.
As the focus on renewable energy for municipalities continues to expand, local governments have a unique opportunity to lead by example. With solar energy now more affordable than ever, many towns, counties, and state facilities across Illinois and Missouri are switching to clean, sustainable power. Installing solar provides measurable environmental benefits while also creating predictable, lower utility costs. The long-term savings from government solar incentives allow agencies to better support their communities.
For more than two decades, StraightUp Solar’s experienced commercial solar installers have designed and installed efficient, cost-saving systems for government organizations throughout the Midwest. As a Certified B Corporation (B Corp), our firm prioritizes people and planet. From design to maintenance, we deliver dependable solar services for government agencies with transparency and expertise.
The Bloomington Public Library expanded its community impact by installing a 263.44 kW solar array through the Illinois Solar for All (ILSFA) program.
Completed in June 2024, the 592-panel system offsets 34% of the facility’s energy needs and is projected to save $950,000 over 25 years. This strategic transition utilized third-party financing to ensure zero upfront costs, allowing the library to lock in budget stability while focusing resources on its core public services.
*All scenarios are unique, your experience may differ.
StraightUp Solar installed a 294 kW rooftop array for the Normal Township Activity & Recreation Center, marking the first and largest Illinois Solar for All project in McLean County. This custom solution is designed to offset 90% of the facility’s annual energy usage, with estimated savings of $1,000,000 over the system’s 25-year lifespan.
*All scenarios are unique, your experience may differ.
The City of Carbondale established itself as a regional energy leader by deploying a $2.4 million solar initiative across three municipal sites, including the Civic Center.
By utilizing a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA), the City achieved this transition with zero capital outlay and $1.5 million in projected long-term savings. These installations leverage favorable net metering to provide budget stability and fixed energy rates for essential public operations.
*All scenarios are unique, your experience may differ.
Traditional energy sources fluctuate in cost and can strain public budgets. By transitioning to solar power for government operations, you protect your organization from volatile energy prices while modeling environmental responsibility for local businesses and residents. The money saved can be reallocated to improve public programs, infrastructure, and services.
Often, one of the largest operational expenses for government entities is electricity costs. By harnessing solar power, agencies can significantly reduce these costs, extend their impact, and demonstrate leadership in sustainability.
The cost of solar energy has dropped more than 80% in the last decade. Combined with the now achievable solution for municipalities and governmental entities, solar is now an achievable solution for nearly every municipality. StraightUp Solar offers financing and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) that make it easy to install solar panels with little to no upfront investment.
Historically, tax-exempt entities like cities and schools couldn’t benefit from federal solar tax credits. That changed with the Inflation Reduction Act’s Direct Pay (Elective Pay) provision.
For organizations that prefer to preserve capital for other public initiatives, a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) offers a “zero-down” solution through a third-party for-profit investor.
A PPA is a contract where a third-party investor finances, builds, owns, and maintains the solar array on your site. The investor utilizes the available federal tax incentives and passes a portion of those savings to you by selling the generated electricity at a fixed, reduced rate—typically lower than traditional grid energy.
Use our interactive graphic to learn more about how a PPA can work for you.
StraightUp Solar provides a customized Solar
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) Proposal for
your organization. Your organization then signs
a PPA with the Third Party Investor who provides
the financing for your solar project.
The Third Party Investor finances the project
and arranges for StraightUp Solar to install the
solar array and provide maintenance. The Investor
receives all financial incentives associated with
the project including the tax credits.
Your array produces solar electricity for the
grid to be consumed as needed.
In return, your organization pays the Investor
a fee for the solar electricity at a lower cost per
kWh than grid electricity.
StraightUp Solar proudly holds B Corp Certification, reflecting our dedication to high standards of social and environmental accountability. We prioritize sustainable practices that benefit both people and the planet.
Forging Ahead With Solar Innovation in Manufacturing at Forge Resources Group Illinois 2019-2025 Founded in 1988, Forge Resources Group (FRG) is a Midwest-based metal manufacturer
A Mission to Support Renovation & Reduce Energy Costs Faith Lutheran Church Invests in Solar O’Fallon, IL October 2025 When Faith Lutheran Church in
Brewing Community Impact: Analytical Brewing Invests in Commercial Solar Lexington, IL December 2024 As a growing brewery rooted in its local community, Analytical Brewing partnered
