Fulton County, Ill. – September 24, 2026 -- Lightstar Renewables confirmed continued expansion of its Illinois development portfolio spanning community solar, agrivoltaic solar, and battery energy storage systems (BESS), building on a national pipeline that now exceeds 1,000 MW across 15 states.
Illinois clean energy mandates drive developer demand
Illinois' Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) sets a target of 100% clean energy by 2050, while the Illinois Shines Adjustable Block Program opens its 2026-2027 cycle on June 1, 2026. The state's Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA) permits co-location of projects up to 10 MW on a single parcel or adjacent properties, and 2026 statewide energy storage legislation established new storage targets, reinforcing demand for grid-responsive infrastructure.
Fulton County array anchors 2.75 MW community solar project
The US Highway 136 Solar Project, a 2.75 MW AC community solar array in Fulton County, supplies clean power directly to the local distribution grid. The facility generates local construction and operations jobs and produces consistent county tax revenue supporting community services and infrastructure.
Lightstar funds athletic field renovation at VIT school district
Lightstar is donating funds to VIT Community Unit School District #2 to renovate the district's athletic field, with the company's logo to be displayed on the field as a community sponsor. During site planning, Lightstar's team cataloged prehistoric artifacts discovered on the property and used the find to engage local students on environmental science and preservation, including an elementary assembly and a Q&A on green career pathways for junior high and high school students.
"We believe that clean energy development must work hand-in-hand with the local community," said Kyle McAdam, Senior Development Manager overseeing the US Highway 136 initiative.
Landowner model offers 20-year leases and fixed income
Under Lightstar's development model, Illinois property owners retain full land ownership, sign lease terms of 20 or more years, and receive fixed, weather-independent lease income across community solar, agrivoltaics, and standalone battery storage. The company manages permitting, construction, and long-term operations end-to-end, allowing landowners to continue compatible land uses without operational burden.