Lincoln-Way Board Weighs Community Solar Program Promising $155,000 in Annual Savings

Article Summary: The Lincoln-Way District 210 board is considering a 20-year agreement to participate in a state-sponsored community solar program that could save the district an estimated $155,000 annually on electricity costs. While intrigued by the potential 10% discount, board members expressed caution and requested more information on the program’s risks, long-term implications, and potential impact on the local community.

Community Solar Opportunity Key Points:

• The proposal involves subscribing to a regional solar farm rather than installing panels on district property.

• The district would receive a 10% discount on electricity drawn from the solar farm, resulting in an estimated $155,000 in annual savings.

• The agreement carries a 20-year term, prompting board members to question the long-term commitment and potential risks.

• Board members also raised concerns about community impact, questioning if participation would lead to the development of large-scale solar farms in the area.

The Lincoln-Way Community High School District 210 Board of Education on Thursday, September 18, 2025, began discussions on a proposal to join a community solar program that could generate significant energy savings but also requires a 20-year commitment.

Presented by Assistant Superintendent Michael Duback, the state-sponsored program would allow the district to subscribe to a regional solar farm, receiving credits for electricity generated there. The arrangement promises a 10% discount on the power used from that source, which the district’s utilities broker estimates would save approximately $155,000 annually based on current usage.

“Instead of putting up physical panels on our district’s roofs or grounds, organizations can subscribe to an area solar farm,” Duback explained. “The whole point there is the incentivization of solar development in the state. And again, the developer takes a risk. We have no ties to the physical. All we do is say, ‘Sure, we don’t care whether our electricity was generated from this source or from those solar panels.'”

Board members were intrigued by the savings but expressed a healthy skepticism about the long-term deal.

“I keep going back with the skepticism of, wait, so it’s too good to be true,” Duback admitted, echoing the board’s sentiment. “But honestly what it is is it’s obviously the state program with these developers and the incentives, government incentives, is where this is coming from.”

Board member Richard C. LaCien Jr. questioned the community impact of such a program. “So, if they get support here, we are now buying, we’re looking at a solar farm…we’re going to be looking at a solar farm in our district and they’re big and they’re ugly. So don’t just get bought with the 10% discount.”

Board President Aaron P. Janik also voiced caution. “I’m assuming we wouldn’t be able to get used to a 10% discount in the long run. It would be just for probably, I’m assuming for one year,” Janik said, before Duback clarified the proposed terms.

“The terms that they talk to are 20-year terms,” Duback responded, adding that the 10% discount would apply each year.

The program, which began last year, is relatively new, meaning there is little long-term data from other school districts. Duback noted that he has been collaborating with New Lenox School District 122, which is also considering the program, and that both districts have had their legal counsel review the draft contract.

Board member Joseph M. Kosteck requested more detailed information before making a decision. “I probably need to see more information on it, more literature, more data rather than just a couple minute overview,” he said.

The administration presented the item as informational to begin the conversation, with plans to bring back more details, including information about other participating districts and potential risks, at the October meeting for a second discussion and possible vote.