Standard Solar Acquires 39 MW Community Solar Portfolio in Illinois

Standard Solar, a leading developer and owner of commercial and community solar assets, has acquired a 39-megawatt (MW) community solar portfolio in Illinois from New Leaf Energy, a seasoned developer of clean energy projects.

This acquisition significantly strengthens Standard Solar’s presence in Illinois, increasing its total portfolio in the state to more than 30 projects—either operational, under construction, or contracted—amounting to a combined capacity of 150 MW.

The newly acquired portfolio includes five community solar projects located in the towns of Blackstone, Braceville, Dwight, Seneca, and Wadsworth. Utilizing a combination of single-axis tracker and ground-mount technology, these projects are expected to generate over 46,700 megawatt-hours (MWh) of clean electricity in their first year of operation.

These community solar projects will enable local residents and businesses to subscribe to renewable energy and receive credits on their electricity bills, expanding access to solar for those who may not be able to install systems on their own properties. “This acquisition from New Leaf Energy reinforces our commitment to expanding access to solar in Illinois and reflects the strong working relationship we’ve built through multiple successful transactions,” said Harry Benson, Director of Business Development, Standard Solar. “It also marks another key addition to our growing portfolio, highlighting our focus on acquiring high-quality, strategic assets.”

“Through our strong partnership with Standard, we are proud to deliver another 39 megawatts of clean, reliable, and renewable energy to communities across Illinois, and advance our shared commitment to building a more sustainable future,” said Kate Vann, Project Finance Director, New Leaf Energy.

“New Leaf Energy has been an exceptional partner, and this marks nearly 30 successful transactions together,” said Mike Streams, Chief Development Officer, Standard Solar. “It underscores our strength as a competitive financial partner and reliable owner-operator in community solar, as well as our ongoing commitment to working with motivated partners to accelerate the clean energy transition through ready-to-build projects.”

“At New Leaf Energy, we’re proud to support Illinois’s clean energy goals by delivering high-quality, community-focused solar projects. This portfolio reflects our commitment to advancing the energy transition through strategic partnerships and disciplined project execution,” said Andrew Kraczkiewicz, Vice President, New Leaf Energy. “Partnering with communities and innovators who share our vision is central to our mission of accelerating the transition to a world powered by renewable energy.”