November 24, 2025
The Illinois State Legislature has clarified rules for solar sites, allowing disputes from a city that objects to a project outside its boundaries to be resolved.
Following the state Legislature’s passage of the Energy Omnibus Bill on Oct. 30, Grundy County and ECA Solar leaders say the new statutory language reaffirms county authority over the siting of solar projects in unincorporated Morris.
ECA Solar is developing a large-scale solar energy project in Grundy County. However, the city of Morris has filed a lawsuit against the county, a private landowner and a subsidiary of ECA Solar. The lawsuit seeks to block the project, despite it being outside the city’s jurisdiction and already approved for a special use permit through Grundy County’s zoning process. Grundy County State’s Attorney Russ Baker explained that the county followed established procedures in reviewing the proposed project.
“While we respect the city of Morris’ position, we were surprised that Morris decided to file a lawsuit,” Baker said. “The proposed solar energy development is located outside the city limits and within the jurisdiction of Grundy County, and the county approval process was conducted legally and in accordance with all applicable zoning and procedural requirements.”
The Energy Omnibus Bill, which Governor JB Pritzker has indicated he will sign, amends the Illinois Counties Code to specify that counties may regulate the siting of commercial solar energy facilities in unincorporated areas outside the jurisdiction of municipal zoning districts. The bill states: “A county may also regulate the installation of commercial solar energy facilities with standards no more restrictive than the requirements specified in this section in unincorporated areas of the county that are outside the jurisdiction of a municipality.” (p. 466)
ECA solar energy representatives stated that the legislation provides additional legal guidance as ongoing legal proceedings continue.
“In our view, this new statute helps clarify the framework for solar sites in Illinois,” said Todd Fryatt, founder and CEO of ECA Solar. “We believe it supports our long-standing position on jurisdictional boundaries regarding this project, and we look forward to continuing to work with state and local partners.”
The City of Morris will respond to ECA Solar’s dismissal request on November 20, while ECA Solar’s response is expected on December 5.
“Our focus remains on promoting clean energy investments, supporting landowners and working with local governments,” Fryatt added.
Keywords: Illinois
