Midwest Solutions Blog

Explore Our Blog: Your Resource for Solar Energy Insights, Installation Tips, and Financial Strategies. Discover expert advice and practical guidance to make informed, sustainable choices.

What is a Virtual Power Plant (VPP)?

Illustration of a Virtual Power Plant showing homes, solar panels, wind turbines, battery storage, and transmission lines connected to the electric grid.

Virtual Power Plants connect solar homes, batteries, and smart devices to create a cleaner, more flexible energy network. Here’s how VPPs work—and why they’re becoming essential for the future of the grid.

2025 Illinois Solar Incentives Guide | Tax Credits + Rebates

Aerial view of downtown Chicago skyline with Lake Michigan in the background

Solar incentives in Illinois are designed to lower upfront costs, create ongoing bill savings, and reward clean energy production. Below, we’ll break down the federal credit, state REC incentives (Illinois Shines), utility rebates for solar and batteries, net-metering changes in…

What is Solar Energy Storage?

Tesla Powerwall battery installed on a residential wall, part of an integrated solar energy system.

Solar energy storage is changing the way homes and businesses use power. Instead of sending excess solar electricity back to the grid, modern systems can store it for later — giving you reliable, around-the-clock clean energy. When you pair your…