en.Wedoany.com Reported - Renewable energy developer New Energy Equity has completed a 5.5-megawatt community solar project in Machesney Park, Illinois, which was officially energized on Wednesday. The project is located on land owned by the Harlem School District and is operated by New Energy Equity.

The project will generate 8.3 million kilowatt-hours of clean electricity annually, equivalent to powering 1,002 Illinois households. Local ComEd customers can join the community solar program and receive bill credits based on their share of the project, thereby reducing their electricity costs.

By leasing school district land and participating as a subscriber in the community solar program, the Harlem School District will receive annual land lease payments and bill credit benefits over 25 years, offsetting energy expenses for its nine schools. Kyle Marchesseault, Vice President of Marketing at New Energy Equity, stated that the project provides the school district with lease revenue and electricity savings, while increasing energy supply for the local community during a period of growing electricity demand.

In addition to electricity output, the project includes a scholarship program. New Energy Equity has committed to providing a total of $10,000 in scholarships annually to Harlem School District students over the project's 25-year operational period, with the first four recipients awarded at the launch ceremony. Superintendent Terrell Yarbrough noted that this partnership extends beyond project completion, demonstrating what can be achieved when organizations collaborate toward a shared vision for the future, creating a lasting impact on schools, students, and the community.