energy insights

DSD and General Energy Complete 675 kW Solar Project for Elmhurst Park District

SCHENECTADY, N.Y. — July 8, 2025 — DSD Renewables (DSD) and General Energy Corporation have completed a 674.96 kW rooftop solar installation for Elmhurst Park District in Illinois, enabling the district to meet sustainability goals and deliver long-term value to the local community.

The system, located on the Courts Plus facility, will generate approximately 754 MWh of clean electricity annually, the equivalent of removing 118 gasoline-powered passenger vehicles from the road each year. This production will offset 50% of the district’s energy needs with clean power, saving on operation costs for its facilities. Over the 20-year agreement, the District anticipates a net positive financial impact of approximately $307,000. This project underscores the District’s commitment to responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources and environmental sustainability.

“This milestone reflects our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint while serving our community,” said Angela M. Ferrentino, Director of Referendum Project Construction for Elmhurst Park District. “This solar project represents an investment in our parks, people, and planet, and was more than just an infrastructure upgrade. We’re confident it will deliver a positive impact to the Elmhurst community for a long time to come.”

General Energy began construction on the project in September 2024, which reached mechanical completion at the beginning of July 2025. The Elmhurst project is financed through a 20-year power purchase agreement (PPA), allowing the district to avoid the upfront costs of construction and development, while being able to receive savings on its energy bill each month.

“This project is a great example of how investing in solar can really enhance public spaces and sustainability can be woven into the community’s everyday life,” says Tony Jaswal, Vice President of General Energy. “DSD served as a trusted partner and together we’re proud to deliver such an impactful project to the public.”

General Energy is part of DSD’s Developer Network, a channel partner program that provides regional developers the tools and resources they need to successfully develop more projects. DSD will own and operate the project long-term.

“Projects like this reinforce our commitment to helping communities build a more sustainable energy future and accelerate adoption across the country.”

“Elmhurst Park District is setting a strong example for how public organizations can lead the way in clean energy adoption,” said Katherine Lillydahl, Senior Account Executive for DSD’s Developer Network. “Projects like this reinforce our commitment to helping communities build a more sustainable energy future and accelerate adoption across the country.”

For more information about DSD’s projects and partners, visit dsdrenewables.com.

About DSD Renewables

DSD Renewables (DSD) is a renewable energy solutions platform enabling a more sustainable future by deploying and operating renewable energy solutions, making solar, storage, and EV charging infrastructure more accessible to commercial, industrial, and municipal partners. With in-house expertise, a broad scope of capabilities, and the proprietary DSD Connect Platform, our team provides resources to industry partners and customers across the US, accelerating the deployment and scale of renewable energy to meet aggressive sustainability and net-zero goals. To learn more, visit DSDRenewables.com and connect with us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

About General Energy

Incorporated in 1985, General Energy Corporation (GEC) has over 39 years of expertise in the energy efficiency industry. For the past 8 years, GEC has been a leader in commercial behind-the-meter solar energy solutions. Our comprehensive experience spans the entire project lifecycle, from conception to completion, ensuring our customers harness the sustainable and economic benefits of solar energy. Our in-house team of professionals excels in solar project design, installation, and management, offering tailored systems to meet your specific energy needs and business goals.

About Elmhurst Park District

Established in 1920, the Elmhurst Park District serves residents of Elmhurst and portions of Addison, Berkeley, Northlake, and unincorporated Elmhurst across 9.8 square miles in Cook and DuPage Counties. Governed by a non-partisan, seven-member Board of Commissioners elected by the community, the District provides parks, facilities, and recreational opportunities to enrich lives while promoting health, wellness, and community connection. The District manages nearly 458 acres of parkland across 30 parks and operates several key facilities including Courts Plus Fitness Center, Wilder Mansion, Wilder Park Conservatory and Museum, and Sugar Creek Golf Course (co-owned with the Village of Villa Park). With a 2025 operating budget of $26.8 million, a Moody’s bond rating of Aa1, and a population of approximately 47,260, the Elmhurst Park District remains committed to responsible stewardship and enhancing the quality of life for all who live in and around Elmhurst.