Solar Energy in Gurnee
The Village of Gurnee is participating in the SolSmart program, which helps local governments reduce barriers to solar energy growth and make it easier for homes and businesses to go solar. As part of the Greenest Region Compact, Gurnee is committed to improving the process for solar applicants.
- Check out the Solar Requirements Checklist
- Submit a building permit application (short-form).
- Include pertinent contractors. Verify electrician is registered with the Village.
- Submit two sets of plans, diagram of electrical installation, letter acknowledging smoke/CO detector requirement to be met (see attached), provide signed and sealed letter by Illinois architect or structural engineering certifying that the roof structure has been evaluated.
Permit fees for solar:
- Residential - $188.50.
- Commercial - $188.50 plus additional costs based on square footage (total under $500).
- All fees are based on the costs to perform the inspection.
Zoning Requirements for solar:
A US EPA Green Power Community
Did you know that many homes and businesses in Gurnee are already powered by alternative energy, even without having solar panels! The Village of Gurnee's Municipal Electric Aggregation Program purchases 100% renewable energy for residents and small business accounts. The EPA ranks Gurnee as one of the Top 100 Green Power Communities! To learn more about the renewable energy with the aggregation program, visit: https://www.gurnee.il.us/residents/services/electrical-aggregation
Consumer Protection and Resources
Resources for residents and businesses interested in installing solar:
- Is Solar Right for You?
- Interstate Renewable Energy Council
- Apply Now and Become SolSmart!
- ComEd Solar Energy Information
- Solar America Board for Codes and Standards
- Solar Customer Resource Portal
- Solar Energy Industries Association - Solar Customer Resource Portal
- Solar Energy Industries Association - Consumer Protection Industry Resource Portal
- Illinois Solar Energy Association Consumer Protection Business Code of Conduct
- Solar Energy Industries Association - Guide to Land Leases for Solar
- The Solar Foundation - Leasing Municipal & Private Property for Solar: Key Steps & Considerations
- Solar Energy Rights
- Grow Solar - Local Government Solar Toolkit
Solar Potential:
Find out your solar potential using these tools:
- Project Sunroof
- Project Sunroof - Search by address
- Lake County Maps Online (then open base map gallery and go to solar potential map)
Find an Installer
Verify that you are using a certified, trusted installer: