For the Village of Port Barrington, solar was more than a line item. It was a way to invest in the future. With access to new grant funding and a clear vision to benefit their community, the village partnered with ilumen Solar to bring their energy goals to life. As neighbors, we were honored to deliver a system that reflects the values of sustainability, efficiency, and local connection.
This was a commercial solar installation for a municipality which qualified for a tax credit for this installation in a unique way, even as a non-tax paying entity. While that might sound like a hurdle, recent provisions called “Elective Pay” or “Direct Pay”. This allows any non-tax paying entity to obtain the equivalent value of the solar tax credit via a special tax filing. Thanks to this specialty legislation, Port Barrington was able to still qualify for:
These were powerful incentives, but they came with a learning curve. The tax credit structure was relatively new, so we made it our responsibility to lead with clarity. That meant breaking down the financials, explaining how the tax credits applied, and partnering with Tri Merit CPA, a firm that specializes in solar tax credits, to handle the entire transaction for a small one-time fee.
At the same time, we supported the village through every step of the decision-making process and were able to complete the installation in two months. For municipal projects, success depends on clear communication with board members, stakeholders, and residents. We made sure everyone understood what to expect and remained available throughout.
This project delivered exactly what the village set out to achieve. A reliable, high quality solar system funded by available grants and incentives. Even more, it gave Port Barrington:
It also brought our communities closer. Because we operate just next door in Lake Barrington, this project felt personal. It was not just another job. It was a collaboration between neighbors. And that made every step more meaningful.
Take a look at how solar is shining in Port Barrington with a few highlights from the installation.
We recently partnered with ilumen Solar for the installation of a solar energy system at one of our Village of Port Barrington facilities, and the experience was outstanding from beginning to end. Their team demonstrated professionalism, responsiveness, and deep expertise—not only in the technical aspects of the installation, but also in permitting, engineering, SREC application, and utility net metering and interconnection. In addition, Illumen went out of their way to find and refer a solar centric accounting firm to us. These folks are key to providing accurate and proper tax credit paperwork to the federal government. Communication throughout the project was excellent—we were kept informed at every stage, from engineering and permitting through installation and final inspection. The crew was respectful, organized, and worked efficiently, ensuring minimal disruption to our day-to-day operations. The system is now up and running, and we are already seeing the bene1fits in terms of reduced energy costs and our community’s sustainability goals. It’s clear that ilumen Solar takes pride in their work and in building long-term relationships with their clients. We would highly recommend them to any municipality or organization considering a solar project
Posted by trustee grothendick on Aug 26, 2025
This testimonial is from actual ilumen Solar customers. Individual results may vary.
Proximity was a big part of the decision. ilumen Solar is located right next to Port Barrington, and both communities are part of the broader Barrington Area. Our president, Zach Witt, serves on the board of the Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce and is deeply involved in local events and initiatives.
This wasn’t a sales pitch. It was a relationship that had already been built through years of community engagement. When it came time to choose a commercial solar installer, the trust was already there.
In the end, it was about shared values. And the bonus? We walked away with even more neighbors and friends.
Working with ilumen Solar means working with a team that:
We believe in smarter energy made simple. Whether you're a business, a municipality, or a homeowner, we make solar feel effortless, stylish, and grounded in real value.
If you're exploring solar for your village or commercial space, we’re here to help. ilumen Solar is proud to serve the communities around us with reliable, modern solar solutions that make sense for your budget, your property, and your future..
Discover more about our commercial solar services or talk to our team about your project today.
