The Future of Solar in IL, IA & WI: Why It’s Here to Stay

March 19, 2025

With political shifts and changes in government policies, it’s natural for business owners and property developers to wonder: Is solar still a viable long-term investment? Some concerns have emerged about whether federal incentives for solar will remain strong under the new administration. However, the reality is clear—solar energy isn’t going anywhere. If anything, the demand for clean, scalable power solutions is only growing.

Big Tech’s Power Needs Are Driving Solar Expansion

One of the biggest reasons solar will continue to thrive is the increasing energy demand from tech giants. Companies like Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Meta are rapidly expanding their data center operations, which require enormous amounts of electricity. These data centers power everything from AI computing to cloud storage, and their energy needs are only set to grow in the coming years.

Solar is the best solution for meeting these rising power demands for a few key reasons:

  • Speed to Market – Unlike fossil fuel-based power plants, which can take years to plan and build, solar farms can come online much faster. This makes solar the most efficient way to meet increasing energy needs in real-time.
  • Scalability – Large-scale solar installations can be deployed in stages, allowing for flexible expansion as demand increases.
  • Clean, Renewable Energy – Major corporations have committed to reducing their carbon footprints. Many have set goals to be 100% powered by renewable energy, meaning solar will remain a cornerstone of their long-term energy strategies.

Local Solar Incentives and Rebates in Jo Daviess County and the Tri-State Area

Government policies surrounding tax credits and incentives for solar may evolve over time, but that doesn’t mean solar itself is in jeopardy. In Jo Daviess County and the surrounding Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin region, businesses and property owners can still take advantage of several local incentives, including:

  • Illinois Adjustable Block Program (Illinois Shines) – Offers financial incentives for solar energy system owners in Jo Daviess County, helping offset the cost of installation.
  • Illinois Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) – A program that allows commercial and residential solar owners to earn credits for the clean energy they generate and sell them for additional income.
  • ComEd and Ameren Illinois Solar Rebates – Businesses and homeowners in the Galena area served by ComEd or Ameren can access solar rebates to lower installation costs.
  • Iowa Solar Energy Tax Credit – For businesses operating in Iowa or with properties across state lines, this program offers additional tax credits for solar installations.
  • Wisconsin Focus on Energy Solar Incentives – Wisconsin-based businesses and property owners near the state border can benefit from additional rebates and grants through this program.
  • Local Net Metering Programs – Utility companies in Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin allow solar system owners to sell excess power back to the grid, further increasing long-term savings.

These programs, combined with decreasing solar panel costs and flexible financing options, make solar a smart investment for businesses looking to reduce long-term energy costs.

Solar Is More Than Just an Incentive-Based Industry

While federal tax credits have helped accelerate solar adoption, the industry has grown well beyond dependency on government support. The cost of solar technology has dropped significantly over the past decade, making it more affordable and accessible than ever before. At the same time, businesses in Galena and the surrounding region are increasingly looking for ways to meet sustainability goals, cut operating expenses, and improve energy resilience. Solar helps accomplish all of these objectives.

The Bottom Line: Solar in Jo Daviess County and the Tri-State Region Is Here to Stay

Regardless of political changes, the demand for clean, reliable, and scalable energy is only increasing. The world’s biggest tech companies are driving the need for more power, and solar remains the fastest and cleanest solution to meet this demand. While incentive structures may shift, solar energy itself is here to stay.

For businesses in Galena, Jo Daviess County, and the surrounding Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin region considering solar, now is still an excellent time to invest. Partnering with a trusted local solar provider ensures you get the most out of available incentives while securing a long-term energy solution that will continue to pay off for years to come.

Want to learn more about how solar can benefit your business? Contact Arrow Solar today to explore your options.