ComEd Illinois Solar Program Overview & How You Can Benefit

Commonwealth Edison (ComEd), a significant energy provider in the United States with a history of 113 years, plays a vital role in Illinois' energy landscape. Serving around 3.8 million people in Illinois, ComEd operates as a subsidiary of Exelon, a major utility company. 

ComEd distinguishes itself by sourcing electricity from Exelon-owned facilities that utilize a variety of energy sources, including nuclear, wind, hydroelectric, oil, natural gas, and notably, solar.

ComEds offers support and education to its growing base of customers and assists them in the solar process. The main role of ComEd solar programs in Illinois is to educate its customers about the potential of going solar is to approve solar applications received from the solar provider its customers choose to use for solar installations.

in this article, I will dive deeper into what exactly are Comeds Illinois solar programs, how their net metering program works with solar, and how you can get free equipment and installation for your solar system installation.

What is ComEds Illinois Solar Program?

Under the ComEd Illinois Solar Program, the company supports a growing solar customer base, currently exceeding 400,000. This initiative includes the Community Solar plan, enabling customers to choose electricity sourced purely from solar energy.

There is also a large focus on vetting approved solar companies and solar programs that allow homeowners to go solar for no upfront or out-of-pocket costs. This includes programs like the power purchase agreement, which you can read more about here.

The program also emphasizes the financial and environmental benefits of personal solar system installations, further enhanced by solar rebates and incentives from state and federal governments.

ComEd's renewable energy portfolio focuses on home solar installation to help homeowners Power their homes using energy from solar panels as well as store excess energy in their batteries using a compatible storage solution and Sell surplus energy back to the grid through a two-way system and a meter connected to the utility grid, a process known as Net Metering or Net Energy Metering (NEM).

How Does ComEds Solar Net Metering Program Work?

ComEd offers Net Metering across Illinois, enabling customers to receive compensation for the surplus energy they contribute to the grid. This compensation is either monetary credits or kilowatt-hours (kWh), dependent on the customer's rate plan.

It's important to note that the solar system should be less than 2,000 kW and not produce over 110% of the customer's previous 12-month energy usage.

Participation in the ComEd Illinois Solar Program can drastically reduce, or even nullify electric bills. However, ComEd's policy does not allow compensation beyond a 100% offset of electric bill charges. Credits do not apply to certain charges and do not carry over to the next billing period.

Does ComEd Offer Free Solar Panels?

While ComEd does not offer free solar panels,  they do vet and approve solar installation companies who can facilitate the installation of your solar system with no upfront or out-of-pocket costs.

The closest you may get to a solar program that offers something for free is the Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) offered by Sunrun. You can read more about that program here.

How to Benefit from ComEds Solar Program in Illinois

Owning a solar system offers several advantages, including reduced carbon footprint, lower monthly bills, increased property value, and reliable power during outages. To benefit from ComEds solar program in Illinois, follow these steps:

• Step 1: Obtain and review your annual ComEd bill.
• Step 2: Get quotes for solar panel systems and explore financing options.
• Step 3: Complete the interconnection agreement and application.
• Step 4: Install your solar system with certified professionals.
• Step 5: Pass Your Home Inspection
• Step 6: Sign up for Net Metering to receive credits for your self-generated power.

You can also go directly to the solar provider who can send your solar project out for bid and have multiple solar companies compete for your business by filling out the solar application on this page.

Incentives for ComEd Solar Customers

The ComEd Illinois Solar Program offers incentives to alleviate the initial costs of solar installations, such as:

• Solar Renewable Energy Credit (SREC) Program: Compensates 7.1 cents per kWh for 15 years, paid as a lump sum in the first year. This value changes over time based on the number of applicants who have been accepted and receive renewable energy credits. This state-sponsored program is on a first-come-first-serve basis.
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• Illinois Solar for All Program: Provides information on free or discounted solar systems to eligible homeowners, renters, and non-profits. They mainly just direct homeowners to pre-approved solar vendors and do not handle the installation themselves. You can read more about the Illinois Solar for all program here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, ComEd, with over a century of experience, plays a pivotal role in Illinois' energy sector, especially in solar energy. As a subsidiary of Exelon, ComEd services millions, offering diverse energy sources including solar.

Their Illinois Solar Program, supporting over 400,000 solar customers, focuses on education, vetted solar installations, and financial benefits. ComEd’s Net Metering program compensates homeowners for surplus energy, contributing to reduced electric bills.

While not offering free panels, ComEd facilitates accessible solar installations, promoting eco-friendly energy solutions and financial incentives, making solar power a practical and beneficial choice for Illinois residents.