New Energy Equity Partners with Harlem Consolidated School District on 5.54 MWdc Community Solar Project

Rhea-AI Summary

New Energy Equity (NEE) has partnered with Harlem Consolidated School District to develop a 5.54 MWdc solar energy project in Illinois. The project, originally developed by BOW Renewables and acquired by NEE, will be built on school district-owned land in eastern Winnebago County.

The initiative, NEE's first in Illinois' Public Schools Program under the Adjustable Block Program (ABP), will provide discounted electricity to both the school district, supporting over 39,000 students across 11 schools, and residential customers in the Commonwealth Edison service area.

This project adds to NEE's existing portfolio of more than 30 community solar projects totaling over 90 MWdc in Illinois. The initiative aims to advance clean energy adoption in educational settings while supporting Illinois' renewable energy goals through community-driven energy solutions.

Positive

• 5.54 MWdc new solar capacity addition
• Provides discounted electricity to school district and residents
• Expands NEE's Illinois portfolio beyond 90 MWdc
• Project generates new revenue from school district-owned land

Negative

• None.

ANNAPOLIS, Md., March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- New Energy Equity, a national leader in developing and financing community and commercial solar projects, is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Harlem Consolidated School District to bring a 5.54 MWdc solar energy project to the district in Illinois.

The solar project will harness clean, renewable power to significantly offset the school district's energy needs.

Developed by BOW Renewables and subsequently acquired by NEE, this project is on land owned by the Harlem Consolidated School District. It will provide significant economic benefits, including discounted electricity, to both the school district in eastern Winnebago County and residential customers in the Commonwealth Edison service area. This collaboration marks NEE's first initiative in Illinois' Public Schools Program, part of the state's Adjustable Block Program (ABP), which drives renewable energy growth across Illinois.

The Harlem Consolidated School District solar project will harness clean, renewable power to significantly offset the district's energy needs, supporting over 39,000 students across 11 schools. Beyond the direct benefits to the district, the project will expand renewable energy access to the broader local community, fostering environmental stewardship and sustainability. This shared clean energy initiative enables the district and participating residents to join Illinois' transition to renewable energy sources and benefit both financially and environmentally.

With this acquisition, New Energy Equity underscores its dedication to advancing clean energy in educational settings, empowering communities, and supporting Illinois' clean energy goals.  Building on its extensive experience in Illinois, where the company already has more than 30 community solar projects totaling over 90 MWdc, the Harlem Consolidated School District project is poised to set a model for sustainable, community-driven energy solutions that create lasting benefits for both public institutions and local residents.

"We are honored to work alongside the Harlem Consolidated School District as they lead by example in environmental responsibility," said Jackie Chambers, New Energy Equity's Chief Investment Officer. "This project demonstrates the power of collaboration, allowing public schools and communities to take meaningful steps toward a cleaner future."

BOW Renewables, LLC, the original developer of the project, expressed excitement about New Energy Equity's acquisition, recognizing the project's potential impact on the region.

"This community solar endeavor serves as a further milestone in BOW's commitment to providing local community benefits and advancing Illinois' clean energy objectives," said Bryan Segarra, Director of Development, BOW Renewables.

The Harlem Consolidated School District also is enthusiastic about the new solar project and the positive impact it will have on students, families, and the wider community.

About New Energy Equity

New Energy Equity LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of ALLETE (NYSE:ALE), develops, finances, operates, and manages solar power generation assets, providing clean electricity to commercial, industrial, municipal, and utility customers under long-term contracts. New Energy Equity has successfully developed over 550MW of solar projects and closed more than $1.2 billion in clean energy investments. To learn more, visit http://www.newenergyequity.com.

About BOW Renewables, LLC

BOW Renewables, LLC was founded in 2018 by industry veterans who are committed to playing a significant role in transitioning America's increasing energy demands to clean and renewable resources. The BOW team was built to provide expertise throughout the lifecycle of a renewable energy project. Our team provides expertise in siting, site acquisition, development management, permitting/approvals, and oversight during construction and energization of a renewable energy project.

Contact: Kyle Wehnes
Director - Marketing
New Energy Equity
262-366-9223
kylew@newenergyequity.com

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SOURCE New Energy Equity

FAQ

What is the capacity of the Harlem Consolidated School District solar project?

The solar project has a capacity of 5.54 MWdc.

How many students will benefit from the Harlem School District solar project?

The project will support over 39,000 students across 11 schools in the district.

What is New Energy Equity's current solar portfolio in Illinois?

NEE has more than 30 community solar projects totaling over 90 MWdc in Illinois.

Who will receive discounted electricity from this solar project?

Both the Harlem Consolidated School District and residential customers in the Commonwealth Edison service area will receive discounted electricity.

Which company originally developed the Harlem School District solar project?

BOW Renewables originally developed the project before it was acquired by New Energy Equity.