TL/DR –
The Village of Arlington Heights has invested in sustainability by installing a new solar panel system on the Public Works facility’s roof. The system consists of 861 solar modules, capable of producing around 613,785 kilowatt-hours of electricity annually, which will power the adjacent water pumping station and significantly reduce future utility costs. Despite the total installation cost of approximately $1.23 million, the Village is eligible for federal incentives covering about 88% of the upfront project costs and is projected to save nearly $1.5 million over the first 20 years of operation.
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June 19, 2026
A major step towards environmental sustainability has been taken by the Village of Arlington Heights. A new solar panel system has been installed on the roof of the Public Works building located at 222 N. Ridge Ave. This project is in line with the long-term goals of the Village Board concerning environmental responsibility, infrastructural enhancement and operational efficiency.
Municipal properties have been under scrutiny since 2021 by the Village staff to identify potential sites for solar energy utilization. The Public Works Garage emerged as the prime candidate due to its size, current roof design, age, and construction type. The structural support necessary for the new solar system was provided by a phased roof replacement project completed in 2024, which readied the facility for solar installation.
Upon deliberation during the Committee-of-the-Whole meeting held on September 9, 2024, the Village Board instructed the staff to proceed with the Village-owned solar array. Verde Solutions, a company experienced in installing similar systems for institutions like the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and the College of Lake County, was partnered with for the project.
The new installation comprises 861 solar modules, capable of generating roughly 613,785 kilowatt-hours of electricity per year. The solar energy produced will power the nearby water pumping station, resulting in a significant decrease in utility costs while promoting the use of cleaner energy across Village operations.
This project also carries substantial financial benefits for the community. Though the overall cost of installation is around $1.23 million, the Village qualifies for federal incentives via the Inflation Reduction Act anticipated to account for about 88 percent of the initial project expenses. Over the first two decades of operation, the system is expected to save the Village close to $1.5 million, paying for itself in just over five years.
Prevailing wage requirements are complied with and federal “Made in America” provisions are supported by this project, in addition to reducing long-term operational costs. It stimulates domestic manufacturing and labor standards.
The solar panel system, estimated to last over 30 years with minimal maintenance, is a strategic investment that promises to deliver environmental and financial dividends for years to come.
The project’s completion was celebrated during a special Earth Day “Solarbration” and ribbon-cutting ceremony held at the Public Works facility on April 22. A video of the event can be viewed below:
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