Illinois Solar Tour - Southwestern Sites

Caseyville

Steve & Ingrid Heinrich

System: 39 roof-mounted panels

Annual Production: 18MWh

Why I went solar: We designed and built our "forever house" as energy net zero as a long-term investment. Since it is our sole residence, we wanted it not only to be energy self-sufficient, but also comfortable, accessible, and easy to maintain. In the end, our home demonstrates that a house does not require complex systems and exotic technology to achieve energy net zero. Our home has achieved national recognition from ICF Builder Magazine and LOGIX.

Highland

Jean Korte

System: 25 roof-mounted panels

Annual Production: 12MWh

Why I went solar: We saw the signs of climate change increasing. Then we learned that Highland's electricity supplier uses primarily coal. So, we wanted to reduce our carbon footprint. We also like learning about technology, so we chose to learn more about solar. Going solar has been a great experience!

Glen Carbon

Chris Krusa

Link to Video

System: 29 roof-mounted panels

Annual Production: 6970kWh

Why I went solar: I am an environmental activist and Executive Committee Member of a local Sierra Club Group. One of the many initiatives this group supports is the MREA Grow Solar Metroeast Program, for which I am also a volunteer advisor. I am also involved with lobby efforts to enact new renewable energy legislation in Illinois. I want to leave the earth a better place for future families, especially children.

Troy

Kevin McKee

Recording from 9/26/20 Live Zoom Tour

Link to Video

System: 24 roof-mounted PV panels, 6 Thermal collectors with a 300 gal tank, EVs, geothermal

Annual Production: 7000kWh

Why I went solar: Kevin decided to go solar because he and his family wanted to reduce their use of carbon-based fuel and their impact on the environment. They want to lead by example! Between the systems shown in this video and the geothermal system he also has installed, Kevin has drastically reduced his consumption of fossil fuels, as well as decreased the amount he pays on his electrical bills! You can learn more about Kevin's installation at his website.