Burr Oak Solar
DeKalb County, Illinois
Project Overview
Burr Oak Solar, LLC (“Burr Oak Solar”) is developing a 300 megawatt (MW) solar facility on approximately 2,000 acres of privately-owned land in DeKalb County, Illinois. The solar energy project is expected to operate for 30+ years, creating more than 700 full-time jobs during construction, providing more than $400M in economic investment to the community, more than $47M in new property taxes for the county and schools, and enough emission-free renewable energy to power 80,000 homes each year. As Burr Oak Solar completes development, construction is expected to start in 2027, bringing an influx of new jobs to the community. The project is expected to begin operating by 2029.
Project location
Timeline
Community Involvement
As a dedicated member of the community, Burr Oak Solar will work hard to earn the trust of our neighbors. Our involvement will go well beyond job creation, economic investment, and providing clean, renewable energy. We strive to build lasting partnerships with civic leaders and property owners. Throughout the life of all our projects, we pride ourselves on being fully transparent in our communication and highly responsive to public feedback.
About Us
Burr Oak Solar is a wholly owned subsidiary of Leeward Renewable Energy, LLC, Leeward Renewable Energy (LRE) is a high-growth renewable energy company building a sustainable future for all. The company owns and operates a portfolio of 31 wind, solar, and energy storage facilities across the United States, totaling approximately 3 gigawatts of generating capacity. LRE takes a tailored, full-lifecycle approach to its projects, which is underpinned by its long-term ownership model and purpose-driven culture that is dedicated to benefiting its community partners while protecting and enhancing the environment. LRE is a portfolio company of OMERS Infrastructure, an investment arm of OMERS, one of the largest defined pension plans in Canada. For more information, visit www.LREus.com.
Responsible Development
Responsible development is an ethos that runs deep at LRE and our subsidiary companies. We develop, own, and operate renewable generation assets for the long term, and are committed to leaving a positive impact on the communities where we operate. We achieve this by prioritizing our values of community partnership, sustainability, and safety.
CLICK HERE for more information about Leeward Renewable Energy, LLC.
Project Downloads
Project Key Facts Sheet Download Here
Solar frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What will the solar facility look like?
The Burr Oak Solar facility will primarily consist of rows of photovoltaic electric generating modules mounted to steel frames installed on driven steel posts with central inverters spaced throughout the site. The entire perimeter of the project site will be fenced for security and safety.
Will the solar facility reduce my property value?
Well-developed solar projects will not negatively impact property values. A solar energy facility such as Burr Oak Solar is a low-intensity, passive use of land. Once constructed, solar projects do not possess the negative qualities that could theoretically impact property values such as hazardous materials, odor, noise, and excess traffic. Enhanced setbacks and professional landscaping will also be used to mitigate visual impact.
Will the solar facility produce glare or noise?
Solar panel technology has advanced significantly in recent years. Solar panels at Burr Oak Solar are manufactured with tempered glass and anti-reflective coatings, minimizing glare. The moving mechanical parts of a solar facility produce minimal noise and are typically inaudible beyond the property boundaries based on the setbacks that are included in the facility’s design.
How long will the solar facility be operational?
The average life of a solar facility is approximately 30-40 years. But with proper maintenance, it can last longer.
Who will maintain the property and vegetation?
Burr Oak Solar will be responsible for maintaining the solar facility property. We work diligently with consultants and local stakeholders to ensure proper ground cover, erosion and sediment control, and stormwater management. We also implement vegetation management plans and best management practices to promote the establishment of native vegetation and the proper mitigation of overgrowth and invasive plant species.
What happens at the end of the project’s life?
At the end of the project’s life, Burr Oak Solar will be responsible for removing equipment and restoring the site to its original use.
How will development of the solar facility affect my community?
Construction brings new employment opportunities, a large direct investment in the community, and increase activity for local business generated from the purchase of food, fuel, accommodations, and other local supplies. During the construction period there will be a relatively short-term increase in traffic volume and noise, typical of similar construction projects.
Once the project is operational, daily traffic to and from the site will be minimal. Throughout its life, the project will not burden DeKalb County public services and utilities; however, it will contribute substantial revenue to the local tax authority and provide clean energy in Illinois.
Contact
If you have questions or feedback Burr Oak Solar, call our project line at (815) 446-1653, or email us at info@burroaksolar.com.
