Summary of Renewable Energy & Energy Efficiency Incentives

Sources for economic incentives that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency include the local, state and federal governments, utilities, as well as, charitable organizations and manufacturers of products incorporated in energy-related projects.

Federal incentives are generally tax credits or deductions available to individuals and corporations; grants; and loans or loan guarantees. Links to the popular programs are:

Energy-Efficient Commercial Buildings Tax Deduction
Renewable Electricity Production Tax Credit
U.S. Department of Treasury – Renewable Energy Grants
Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit

To explore more available Federal incentives »

State and local incentives are generally tax credits or deductions available to individuals and corporations; grants; and loans. Links to the popular programs are:

Illinois Finance Authority Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Project Financing
Cultivate Illinois – Green Energy Loans
Illinois State Board of Education – School Energy Efficiency Grant Program

The State of Illinois’ Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) also has grant and rebate programs available from the EEPS fund which is monetized through a surcharge paid by all Commonwealth Edison (ComEd) and Ameren customers. EEPS funding is available for local, state, and federal governments; public school districts; community colleges; and universities that receive electricity distribution service from ComEd or Ameren affiliated utilities including customers that purchase energy through an alternative supplier. DCEO programs include:

DCEO – Energy Efficient Affordable Housing Construction Program
DCEO – Public Sector New Construction and Retrofit Program
DCEO – Large-Customer Energy Analysis Program (LEAP)
DCEO – Public Sector Energy Efficiency Programs
DCEO – Solar and Wind Energy Rebate Program

To explore more available state incentives »

Incentives are also available through most utilities including ComEd, Ameren, MidAmerican Energy, Nicor Gas, North Shore Gas and Peoples Gas as well as smaller cooperatives and municipally owned utilities. Utility programs include:

Ameren Illinois (Electric) – Commercial Kitchen and Grocery Incentives Program
ComEd – Smart Ideas for Business Efficiency Program
MidAmerican Energy (Electric) – Commercial Energy Advantage Rebate Program
Nicor Gas – Commercial Energy Efficiency Rebates

Visit utility websites for more information and programs.

Charitable organizations such as the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation (ICECF) generally provide funding for renewable energy or energy efficiency programs that are compatible with the organization’s mission. Many of these programs focus on the education sector. Funding is most often in the form of competitive grants.

Some manufacturers offer rebates or incentives to promote the use of their products in renewable energy or energy efficiency projects.