The Illinois Shines program, officially known as the Adjustable Block Program, has officially opened for the 2025–26 Program Year, offering 800 MW of capacity across six key project categories. Administered by the Illinois Power Agency (IPA), this state-backed solar incentive program continues to support the development of distributed generation and community solar projects throughout Illinois—with a strong emphasis on equity, transparency, and consumer protection.

At Solspark, we’re proud to support initiatives like Illinois Shines that are making solar more accessible and equitable for everyone.

Consumer Protection Initiatives

Continued rollout of improved processes and consumer support as detailed in the IPA’s 2024 Long-Term Plan.

The Minimum Equity Standard (MES) now requires that 14% of the workforce on each project be composed of Equity Eligible Persons (EEPs)

Mentorship Program Expansion

More opportunities for small, minority-owned, woman-owned, veteran-owned, and disability-owned businesses to engage in the solar industry.

Public Schools Category Growth

New resources like webinars, tailored workshops, and success stories to help schools understand and adopt solar energy.