A Landmark Step Toward Sustainability
In Illinois, the Lake County Forest Preserve District has long been a guardian of natural beauty, protecting nearly 3,000 acres of trails, wildlife habitats, fishing ponds, equestrian paths, and even a nationally designated bog. This unique landscape, home to 24 threatened and endangered species, now benefits from a bold step into the future: a new net zero maintenance facility that exemplifies environmental stewardship and innovative energy solutions
The Comprehensive Transformation Plan
Beginning in 2021, the Forest Preserve launched a master renovation plan to upgrade aging infrastructure. Central to this vision was the construction of a 9,800 square-foot net zero maintenance building, designed to operate with a solar energy system capable of generating 100% of its annual power needs.
Hardt Electric, a trusted Chicago-based electrical and energy contractor with over 50 years of experience, was chosen to bring this ambitious vision to life. With decades of solar infrastructure expertise, the Hardt team worked to design and implement a system that would deliver on both performance and sustainability goals
Harnessing Solar with Advanced Technology
The facility’s energy independence comes from a 54 kW solar ground array design using APsystems QT2-480V micro-inverters. Unlike traditional string inverters, micro-inverter technology optimizes each panel individually. This approach ensures:
- Higher performance in shaded or variable light conditions
- Greater system reliability—if one panel underperforms, others continue at full capacity
- Real-time monitoring and simplified maintenance
- Lower fire and electrical risks, thanks to reduced system voltages
According to Hardt Electric President Peter Hardt, this technology not only boosts efficiency but also ensures long-term safety and scalability, allowing the system to grow as needs evolve.
Results: A True Net Zero Facility
The outcome is as inspiring as the vision: the solar system generates 100%+ of the building’s annual energy needs, making the facility a true net zero operation. Beyond lowering the Forest Preserve’s carbon footprint, this project serves as a model for how public facilities can lead by example in the fight against climate change.
With projects like this, Hardt Electric demonstrates how working with a qualified experienced EPC can transform communities. By delivering reliable, safe, and sustainable power, Hardt Electric is helping Illinois build a cleaner, brighter future—one installation at a time.
LEARN HOW SOLAR CAN SUPPORT YOUR BUSINESS GOALS – Reach out to us to start the conversation: solar@hardtelectric.com