Chicago – September 07, 2026 -- Reactivate and The Obama Foundation have signed a multi-year agreement making the Foundation the anchor tenant for community solar projects across Illinois, a structure designed to let low-to-moderate income households and small businesses cut utility bills by up to 50%.
Obama Foundation anchors solar portfolio to unlock financing for local subscribers
Under the deal, the Foundation commits to purchasing a portion of solar output from projects developed, owned and operated by Reactivate, a move that stabilizes project economics and frees remaining capacity for subscription by residents and businesses through the Illinois Solar For All program or other regional community solar schemes.
Obama Presidential Center secures 100% renewable electricity through the arrangement
The anchor tenancy allows the Foundation to offset energy costs tied to the Obama Presidential Center while locking in predictable, lower-cost clean power. Valerie Jarrett, CEO of The Obama Foundation, said the Center is sourcing 100% of its electricity from renewable energy and is partnering with Reactivate to extend solar access to neighboring communities.
Community solar model removes upfront capital barriers for renters and small businesses
Because community solar subscribers do not need to own property or fund installation costs, the model gives renters, working-class households and local small businesses a zero-upfront-cost route to lower and more stable energy bills amid rising electricity prices nationally.
Utopia Hill, CEO of Reactivate, said the anchor tenant role lowers the barrier to entry for local families and small businesses to reduce energy costs while powering the Presidential Center with clean energy. Tuba Avcisert, SVP of Origination and Contracting at Reactivate, said the Foundation's trust reflects a shared commitment to delivering lasting benefits for the communities the projects serve.