Nexamp and Trajectory Energy Partners this week celebrated the opening of Blue Grama Solar, a 4.7 megawatt community solar garden that marks a significant step forward in Illinois’ clean energy transition. As the first Community-Driven Community Solar (CDCS) project energized under the Illinois Shines program, Blue Grama Solar, located in Galesburg, Illinois, prioritizes community involvement and local benefit, setting a new standard in renewable energy development.
The Blue Grama Solar project features more than 8,000 solar panels and will generate enough electricity to offset the annual power needs of more than 700 Illinois households. CDCS projects are designed to provide tangible benefits for local communities, including workforce opportunities, regional investment, and continued participation in the clean energy economy, driven by long-term engagement with Galesburg and Knox County area leaders.
Nexamp, Trajectory and local officials cut the ribbon on Blue Grama Solar.
“This is the kind of project that demonstrates how solar can be a win for everyone,” said Jessica Collingsworth, Central Policy Director, Nexamp. “By putting community needs at the center of the development process, Blue Grama Solar delivers more than clean energy—it delivers ownership, opportunity, and pride. We’re honored to work with partners like Trajectory to help lead Illinois toward a more powerful and adaptable energy future.”
Trajectory Energy Partners echoed that commitment to local impact. “Today marks a milestone, not just for Galesburg, but the entire state of Illinois,” said Josh Bushinsky, Co-Founder of Trajectory Energy Partners. “The success of Blue Grama Solar demonstrates what is possible when community members, local leaders, developers, and policymakers collaborate to deliver the benefits of solar.”
Blue Grama Solar supports the goals set forth in Illinois’ landmark Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which commits the state to achieving 100% clean energy by 2050. Projects like this, built with community leadership and benefit in mind, are key to achieving those ambitious targets.
“Galesburg is proud to be home to this innovative solar project, which is a beacon for how cities and towns across Illinois can participate in building a greener, more capable energy grid,” said Mayor Peter Schwartzman. “Blue Grama Solar demonstrates what’s possible when public, private, and community partners come together around a shared commitment to sustainability and economic opportunity.”
The launch of Blue Grama Solar follows Nexamp’s announcement last year of its second headquarters in Chicago, further cementing the company’s commitment to the state. With expanding operations and a growing footprint across Illinois, Nexamp continues to invest in local communities and infrastructure to help power the state’s clean energy transformation.
