Illinois Shines: ABP 101

The Illinois Adjustable Block Program (ABP) (also known as Illinois Shines) is a state-administered solar incentive program developed and managed by the Illinois Power Agency (IPA). It offers incentives for residents through the purchase of Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) for distributed solar generation. RECs are exchanged for 15 years of energy production generated by new photovoltaic (PV) systems. 

In 2021, Illinois set a goal of running on 100% renewable energy by 2050. Illinois joins several other states, such as California and New Mexico, to establish aggressive environmental goals requiring a carbon-free power sector. 

How do Carbon Solutions and the ABP work together? 

Carbon Solutions SREC, LLC is an Approved Vendor of the ABP. We partner with local installers to get their solar customers through the application process in accordance with the Illinois Shines Program requirements.

Who can participate in the ABP? 

Participation in the APB is through approved vendors who represent the solar project owner. They are responsible for:

• Submitting compliance paperwork.
• Maintaining collateral requirements (equivalent to 5% of the total contract value).
• Providing ongoing information and reporting.

Approved vendors submit projects bundled into batches of at least 100 kW (or 50 kW in certain cases). The approved vendor agrees to provide a predetermined number of RECs that the utility must purchase over the next 15 years at a predetermined price per REC.

Photo: Illinois Shines Brochure and Disclosure Form

 

How ABP Process Works

The Consumer Disclosure form is required for every solar installation in Illinois to take part in the Adjustable Block Program. The form provides an overview of your purchase, warranties, fees, and more. This form must be signed by you in order for your solar system to take part in the ABP.

• Pre-Contract: This form has to be signed prior to signing your installation contract.
• E-signable: This is typically sent via email from the email address: “[e-mail]” and is e-signable.

Note: If you signed your installation contract prior to receiving the Consumer Disclosure Form, please reach out to [e-mail] so that we can ensure our partners are following ABP Marketing Guidelines. 

These are the ABP Process Steps: 

1. Standard Disclosure Form signed ( this will happen with either prior at the same time that you are signing the installation contract. 

2. Contract Signed (this may happen concurrently with the previous step)

3. Invoicing

4. Pre Installation (Part 1) 

5. Post Installation (Part 2) 

6. SREC Application Queuing for Payment

What are the expected timelines?

We generally expect the multi-step application process to take 12-18 months from the time you apply to the time you receive your SREC payment. This process can take longer depending on how long it is between contract signing and system installation. 

The ABP with Carbon Solutions offers payment for 15 years of SRECs – but please note that REC Generation and Collateral Requirements will apply.