Lee County at Forefront of Illinois' Clean Energy Initiatives
A weathered sign for Renner Quarries stands beside Illinois Route 26, south of Dixon, often battered by the wind. As storms approach, the surrounding farmland darkens, and the sign groans with each gust. Soon, however, this landscape will transform. The cornfields surrounding the quarry and extending further afield are slated to be replaced with solar panels.
Lee County is at the forefront of Illinois’ clean energy initiatives, planning two substantial solar farms: the South Dixon farm, covering 3,838 acres, and the Steward Creek farm, which will span 9,000 acres closer to Ogle County. "Creation of energy is a big thing," states Alice Henkel, Lee County’s zoning administrator, highlighting the county’s commitment. The Lee County Board previously approved these locations to support the state’s goal of 100% clean energy sources. Currently, over 2,000 megawatts of energy are ready for construction in the county.
The projects are awaiting final approval from PJM Interconnection, the regional transmission organization responsible for grid access across 13 states. Henkel explains that both South Dixon and Steward Creek are in the third phase, the final stage before securing a connection agreement. The process has been lengthy, partly due to PJM’s structure and its transition to a cluster process, which initially stalled new projects. "It was just a little bit frustrating," Henkel admits, referencing the misalignment between state goals and PJM’s restructuring.
PJM has indicated that connection agreements for South Dixon and Steward Creek should be signed by the end of 2026, though a firm commitment remains desired. Tom Kitson, the Lee County Board’s vice chairperson, argues these delays hinder potential taxpayer benefits, referencing an estimated $130 million in property tax revenue over 35 years generated by the farms. This revenue would benefit schools, fire districts, and other involved entities, while also creating jobs and supporting local farmers.
Beyond electricity generation – enough to power approximately 200,000 homes – Kitson envisions these farms attracting further development. He anticipates the availability of power to encourage data centers and new factories, noting that the County Board is preparing an ordinance to attract tech companies. Henkel anticipates Lee County issuing building permits for parts of the solar projects next year, contingent on the awarding of PJM’s connection agreements, and anticipates an update in September or October. "We are seeing movement again, and that is what we want," she concludes, adding that Steward Creek has the potential to become one of – if not – Illinois’ largest solar farm upon completion.
