Solar Panel Project – Community Recreation Center
START DATE
2025
LOCATION
Community Recreation Center, Wilmette
Updated 10.31.25
Solar Panel Project - Update
The CRC Solar Project is nearly complete, awaiting final inspection and ComEd authorization to activate the panels. Solar Panels are expected to be live in the next few weeks.
We’ve put together a BLOG to help inform the community about the project details.
Highlights and visuals of the plan are below.
- Summary of Key Components for the Project
– No Upfront Cost to the District
– 1,054 high-efficiency 585-watt panels
– Lower Energy Rate Secured Long-Term
– Non-Renewable Energy Cost Savings
– Minimal Impact During Construction
– Strong Environmental Impact
– Fully Operational by Late Summer 2025
Project Overview
Wilmette Park District has launched an innovative solar panel project at the Community Recreation Center, our most active and energy-intensive facility, as part of a broader commitment to environmental responsibility and operational sustainability. This initiative aligns with the District’s Comprehensive and Sustainability Plans, marking a significant milestone in its ongoing efforts to reduce reliance on traditional energy sources and embrace cleaner, greener alternatives.
As stewards of community resources and public spaces, the Park District leads by example, demonstrating how renewable energy solutions can serve environmental and economic priorities. By making “green choices” today, the District is laying the groundwork for a healthier, more sustainable future.
Project Partners and Their Roles
Wilmette Park District: We identified the need for a long-term energy solution and the Recreation Center as a great facility to utilize for this project. The District will benefit directly from the energy savings and reduced environmental impact.
Onyx Renewables: Serving as the third-party owner and financier, Onyx Renewables is responsible for funding, installing, and maintaining the entire solar array. Through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the District, Onyx will sell the generated solar electricity at a fixed rate—lower than the District’s current utility cost—ensuring long-term savings without upfront investment.
Verde Solutions: As the energy consultant for the project, Verde Solutions provided technical expertise, feasibility analysis, and project coordination. Their insights helped shape system specifications and long-range savings projections, including an estimated $50,981 in annual non-renewable energy cost offset, and $1.54 million in lifecycle savings over 25 years.
Planning Goal and Intended Outcomes
Implement a solar energy solution that aligns with the Wilmette Park District’s Comprehensive and Sustainability Plans.
Reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources by generating over 717,000 kWh of clean electricity annually.
Secure a third-party partnership to finance, install, and maintain the solar system with no upfront capital cost to the District.
Lock in long-term electricity rates below current market prices to ensure predictable budgeting and mitigate future utility cost increases.
Minimize disruptions to Recreation Center operations, parking, programming, and community access throughout the installation process.
Utilize facility rooftop space efficiently to house a high-capacity solar system without reducing usable program space.
Achieve long-term operational savings, with an estimated $50,981 in annual non-renewable energy cost offset and $1.54 million over 25 years.
Enhance the Park District’s reputation as a sustainability leader and community role model.
Create educational opportunities for residents and students to learn about renewable energy.
Documents and Presentations
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Project Timeline
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