Lake County Gazette

A new solar array system will power the Lake County Central Permit Facility in Libertyville on Sept. 17 at a ribbon-cutting ceremony. It is the first county government building to utilize solar power.

According to a Lake County news release, the ground-mounted solar array system has more than 2,000 photovoltaic panels and will provide enough electricity to power the permit facility. Standard Solar constructed the solar array, and a solar power purchase agreement was made to power the permit facility.

The news release said that the Lake County Board set a goal to increase the amount of renewable energy generated by the county in its strategic plan. The county aims to procure 100% renewable energy by the year 2040 and reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 90% or more.

Additionally, there are opportunities for businesses and residents to explore solar options for their properties through the Solar Switch program. This program organizes group purchasing of residential solar panels to potentially help homeowners receive a discounted price for a solar panel installation.

"By adopting solar power, we're not only showcasing our dedication to combating climate change through the expansion of renewable energy and the decarbonization of our local energy sector, but we're also achieving significant cost savings for Lake County," Lake County Board Chair Sandy Hart said in a news release.