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Illinois solar project adapts layout to train tracks, wetland and existing power lines

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Illinois solar project adapts layout to train tracks, wetland and existing power lines

Cultivate Power has officially powered up the Bowes Solar project. Located on a 22-acre farm in Elgin, Illinois, this community solar initiative consists of two installations — a 4.975-MW site and a 4.25-MW site — that will generate electricity for the ComEd territory.

Developing the Bowes Solar property required a specialized approach, since adjacent train tracks, high-voltage power lines, an irregular footprint and a corner wetland had previously deterred development. Cultivate Power’s team successfully adapted its design to fit these site-specific constraints, including using Planted Solar’s high-density racking technology to enable a higher megawatt density per acre.

“In Elgin, we are very deliberate about our land use planning and ensuring that our growth fits the nature of the community,” said Marc Mylott, community development director, City of Elgin. “After reviewing the proposal thoroughly, we determined solar was a great use for this property. Cultivate Power was willing and able to develop despite the site’s encumbrances, creating a productive use of the land that generates property taxes and local electricity with limited disturbance to the surrounding community.

To drive further community engagement and impact, Cultivate Power is directly investing $575,000 to support area organizations, including Elgin Community College; Food for Greater Elgin, a member agency of Northern Illinois Food Bank; Friends of the Fox River; We Care Solar; the Evolve Foundation; and Sesenergi Eco Solutions’ workforce training programs. 1 million in property taxes over the project’s lifetime, with the majority directly benefiting School District U-46. During construction, the project employed over 75 individuals, including 49 union laborers.


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