Wind Energy Production Development Program

Summary

Note: The application period for the current round of grants has closed. The information posted here is for reference only. The Wind Energy Production Development Program provides financial assistance for the development of new wind energy production projects in Illinois of at least 0.5 MW of nameplate capacity; however, depending on applicants, one or multiple smaller projects may be selected for support. Expenditures eligible for funding include development of business plans, engineering designs and drawings, advanced market studies and financial analyses, technical assistance, development of educational and informational materials, dissemination of information, and other business development activities, as well as the purchase of equipment and/or materials. Projects involving the installation of renewable energy equipment at single-family residences are not eligible under this program. The eligibility of project expenditures will be determined on a project-specific basis. The maximum grant award that may be requested for each eligible planning/development project is $25,000, although this maximum may be waived under certain circumstances. Prior to submitting a proposal the applicant must have selected a site, completed a preliminary site assessment, identified and secured funds for planning and organizational expenses, and be in the process of developing a business plan, selecting a design and engineering firm, developing designs, or securing financial committments. Units of state and local government, associations, public and private schools, colleges and universities, research organizations, not-for-profit organizations, private companies and individuals may be eligible for funding. Note, however, that only customers of a utility, municipal electric utility, or electric cooperative that assesses the Renewable Energy Resources Trust Fund charge are eligible for funding. Participating utilities are listed on the application available from the program website.