Solar Panel Project – Community Recreation Center

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.