New Energy Equity Partners with Harlem Consolidated School District on 5.54 MWdc Community Solar Project

ANNAPOLIS, Md., March 6, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- New Energy Equity, a national leader in developing and financing community and commercial solar projects, is pleased to announce a new partnership with the Harlem Consolidated School District to bring a 5.54 MWdc solar energy project to the district in Illinois.

Developed by BOW Renewables and subsequently acquired by NEE, this project is on land owned by the Harlem Consolidated School District. It will provide significant economic benefits, including discounted electricity, to both the school district in eastern Winnebago County and residential customers in the Commonwealth Edison service area. This collaboration marks NEE's first initiative in Illinois' Public Schools Program, part of the state's Adjustable Block Program (ABP), which drives renewable energy growth across Illinois.

The Harlem Consolidated School District solar project will harness clean, renewable power to significantly offset the district's energy needs, supporting over 39,000 students across 11 schools. Beyond the direct benefits to the district, the project will expand renewable energy access to the broader local community, fostering environmental stewardship and sustainability. This shared clean energy initiative enables the district and participating residents to join Illinois' transition to renewable energy sources and benefit both financially and environmentally.

With this acquisition, New Energy Equity underscores its dedication to advancing clean energy in educational settings, empowering communities, and supporting Illinois' clean energy goals.  Building on its extensive experience in Illinois, where the company already has more than 30 community solar projects totaling over 90 MWdc, the Harlem Consolidated School District project is poised to set a model for sustainable, community-driven energy solutions that create lasting benefits for both public institutions and local residents.

"We are honored to work alongside the Harlem Consolidated School District as they lead by example in environmental responsibility," said Jackie Chambers, New Energy Equity's Chief Investment Officer. "This project demonstrates the power of collaboration, allowing public schools and communities to take meaningful steps toward a cleaner future."

BOW Renewables, LLC, the original developer of the project, expressed excitement about New Energy Equity's acquisition, recognizing the project's potential impact on the region.

"This community solar endeavor serves as a further milestone in BOW's commitment to providing local community benefits and advancing Illinois' clean energy objectives," said Bryan Segarra, Director of Development, BOW Renewables.

The Harlem Consolidated School District also is enthusiastic about the new solar project and the positive impact it will have on students, families, and the wider community.

About New Energy Equity

New Energy Equity LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of ALLETE (NYSE:ALE), develops, finances, operates, and manages solar power generation assets, providing clean electricity to commercial, industrial, municipal, and utility customers under long-term contracts. New Energy Equity has successfully developed over 550MW of solar projects and closed more than $1.2 billion in clean energy investments. To learn more, visit http://www.newenergyequity.com.

About BOW Renewables, LLC

BOW Renewables, LLC was founded in 2018 by industry veterans who are committed to playing a significant role in transitioning America's increasing energy demands to clean and renewable resources. The BOW team was built to provide expertise throughout the lifecycle of a renewable energy project. Our team provides expertise in siting, site acquisition, development management, permitting/approvals, and oversight during construction and energization of a renewable energy project.

Contact: Kyle Wehnes
Director - Marketing
New Energy Equity
262-366-9223
[email protected]

SOURCE New Energy Equity