Ameresco Inc. and the City of Alton, Illinois are partnering to develop a 5 megawatt (MW) AC/7 MW DC solar array to be installed and completed on a local municipal landfill site at the end of 2023, Ameresco announced in a Feb. 9 press release.

The joint project brings Alton closer to the clean energy target outlined in the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) in 2021, which said that Illinois’ energy supply would be 40% renewable by 2030 and 50% renewable by 2040.

The project in its first year is expected to produce approximately 10,000 MWh of electricity and reduce Alton’s carbon footprint by over 7,000 tons and, with its 30-year life span, reduce carbon emissions by 197,000 metric tons. 

“Greenhouse gas emissions contribute to global warming, directly impacting communities through adverse weather events – including the increased flooding we’ve experienced here in Alton. Though global warming is a worldwide problem, this project will benefit our city through local job creation and increased property tax revenue while also reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” said David Goins, Alton’s Mayor. 

Located on what is currently un-used land, it will generate approximately $1 million in revenue for Alton.

Ameresco is a cleantech integrator and renewable energy asset developer, owner and operator for clients in North America and Europe.