City of Lincoln launches community solar project to cut electricity costs

The Committee of the Whole Meeting held by the City Council of Lincoln, Illinois, on June 24, 2025, focused primarily on updates regarding solar energy projects in the community. The discussions highlighted the progress of a solar system being developed for the sewer treatment plant and a larger community solar project planned for additional city land.

The city has been awarded a project to build a solar system at the sewer treatment plant, which is expected to significantly reduce energy costs. Currently, the city pays approximately 12 cents per kilowatt-hour for electricity from Ameren, while the solar power generated will cost only 4 cents per kilowatt-hour. This project, initiated several years ago, aims to provide substantial savings on energy bills for the treatment plant.

In addition to the treatment plant project, the city is moving forward with a community-driven solar initiative that will be three times larger than the current system. The city plans to take 20% of the output from this new solar project, also at a rate of 4 cents per kilowatt-hour. This arrangement is expected to yield considerable savings, estimated at around $60,000 annually based on current rates.

During the meeting, city officials discussed necessary documentation to proceed with the solar projects, including lease amendments and subscriber agreements. These agreements will allow the city to adjust its energy commitment annually, providing flexibility in response to changing energy needs.

Concerns were raised regarding the operational status of the existing solar farm, which had faced issues with equipment that tracks the sun. It was confirmed that repairs have been made, and the system is now generating power effectively. However, delays from Ameren in connecting new solar projects to the grid were noted, with expectations for the new community solar project to be operational by late 2026.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s commitment to renewable energy and the financial benefits expected from these solar initiatives, while also addressing ongoing challenges with utility partnerships. The council plans to place the discussed agreements on the regular agenda for further consideration.