Solar Energy Comes to the Wilmette Community Recreation Center

Wilmette Park District is proud to announce the installation of a solar panel system at the Community Recreation Center. This project marks a significant step forward in our commitment to sustainability and championing green energy practices in our most active recreation center.

What’s Happening?

Throughout the Summer, progress will unfold as our contracting partners install a solar energy system comprising 1,054 high-efficiency 585-watt panels. These panels are anticipated to produce an impressive 717,840 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean energy annually. Over their estimated 30-year lifespan, they’ll generate nearly 10 million kWh, significantly reducing environmental impact.

What does this mean in real-world terms? That’s the same as:

• Taking 3,050 passenger vehicles off the road for a year
• Preventing 14,156 metric tons of CO₂ emissions
• Recycling the equivalent of 4,804 tons of waste
• Planting 235,358 tree seedlings and letting them grow for a decade

How Will It Work?

The Wilmette Park District has partnered with Onyx Renewables, a third-party solar energy provider, through a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). This innovative financing model means the district will avoid upfront costs while gaining access to renewable solar power. Onyx Renewables will own and maintain the system, while the Recreation Center will purchase the solar energy it generates.

The cost of this solar energy is fixed at $0.0405 per kilowatt-hour, compared to our current rate of $0.04266 per kilowatt-hour under the District’s electricity contract with NIMEC. While the approximate 5% rate reduction may not seem dramatic at first glance, it’s important to note that this figure locks in our solar energy rate over the life of the agreement—insulating us from potential energy price hikes and offering long-term budget predictability.

According to Verde Solutions, the project’s Energy Consultant, the system is projected to deliver an estimated $50,981 in first-year savings on non-renewable energy costs by substituting conventional power sources with clean solar generation. Thanks to reduced grid energy consumption, the lifecycle savings are projected to reach $1.54 million over 25 years. These funds can be reinvested into community programming and facilities, extending the impact of this project.

What to Expect During Installation

We understand that building construction can cause concerns, and we want to emphasize that this project is being conducted with the public in mind. Thanks to staff planning and coordination, we anticipate minimal disruption to daily operations, parking, summer camps and programming.

• Power shutdowns required for electrical tie-ins will be scheduled during “off hours” with advance notice in collaboration with ComEd. Check our Solar Panel Project Page for the most up-to-date info.
• Our teams are working closely with Recreation Center staff to ensure continued facility access and the least possible impact on patrons and programming.

Why This Matters

Investing in solar energy isn’t just about financial efficiency; it aligns with our values. We’re reducing reliance on traditional energy sources, demonstrating environmental stewardship, and inspiring future generations to value sustainability. This project follows our Comprehensive and Sustainability Plans and our larger vision to continue making “green choices” and contributing to a healthier planet.

By making our facilities more sustainable, Wilmette Park District saves money and leads by example toward a cleaner, more responsible future.

When Will It Be Complete?

According to our current schedule, the solar energy system will be fully operational by mid-to-late August 2025. Watch for more updates on our Project Page as we progress, and celebrate with us as we reach this exciting milestone.