Summit Ridge Energy has secured a long-term community solar partnership with The Libman Company, a fourth-generation family-owned Illinois manufacturer, covering seven projects totalling 17.5 MW of distributed solar capacity across the state, GlobeNewswire reports.

Under the agreement, Libman will subscribe to projects owned and operated by Summit Ridge, with the partnership expected to deliver millions of dollars in lifetime energy cost savings for Libman's manufacturing facility in Arcola, Illinois, whilst adding distributed power to the state's electric grid. Projects are scheduled to begin delivering power in late 2026.

Owen Brannigan, director of business development at Summit Ridge Energy, said: "This collaboration demonstrates how locally generated power can deliver real value for manufacturers --lowering energy costs, strengthening the grid, and supporting local jobs."

During construction and long-term operations, the seven projects will contribute to job creation in Illinois, including roles in engineering, project management and site maintenance. Energy generated close to consumption points helps reduce strain on regional transmission infrastructure and improves overall grid reliability.

Libman has operated in Illinois for more than a century and employs hundreds of workers at its Arcola facility. By subscribing to community solar, the company benefits from locally generated power without installing equipment onsite whilst continuing investment in Illinois-based manufacturing and employment.

Andrew Libman, president at The Libman Company, said: "As a family-owned manufacturer with more than a century of operating in Illinois, we're focused on making smart, long-term decisions for our business and our workforce."

Matthew Keith, vice president of energy projects at Bridge Energy Services, served as Libman's community solar advisor during the transaction.

Explore Summit Ridge Energy's community solar model and subscription terms for commercial partners in the full report.