Cook County Solar Synergy

Service Information

NOTE: Elements of this program will continue to launch in early February 2025. Please check back for updates!

Cook County Solar Synergy connects contractors and job seekers to the resources they need to enter and succeed in the solar-installation sector.

Interested in receiving regular updates about the program? Sign up for our newsletter!

For contractors

Contractors interested in solar installation can work with the Cook County Small Business Source, which provides:

  • No-cost, one-on-one business advising through its network of Business Support Organizations
  • Access to contractor-accelerator programs that offer specialized training, business-development support and networking opportunities
  • Guidance in applying for the latest financing opportunities
  • A robust calendar of informative events held both in-person and online

Sign up for business advising today to get started! (NOTE: When completing the intake form, be sure to check the box that reads: "My business does work related to solar installation and/or construction and I am interested in business advising services."

Cook County Government is now accepting responses to its Request for Qualifications for a solar-installation opportunity. This is your chance to be part of a major clean-energy initiative, installing solar systems across Cook County facilities and properties. Learn more here.

For job seekers

Job seekers can take advantage of training programs led by two nonprofit organizations that prepare them for careers in solar installation.

  • HIRE360 offers a pre-apprenticeship training program that prepares participants for apprenticeship opportunities in trades that support solar installation.
  • OAI, Inc. offers the LYTE Solar Pipeline Training Program, which prepares participants for entry-level employment in solar installation.

More on the program

Cook County Solar Synergy is supported by a $1.1 million grant the County received from the U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO) in June 2023.

As part of this program, the County teams up with several stakeholders in the solar-sector, small-business and workforce ecosystems.

These stakeholders share knowledge intended to maximize businesses' returns and improve workers’ economic mobility.

Questions?

For more information, email bed.solarsynergy@cookcountyil.gov.

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