As electric vehicle (EV) adoption surges across the Midwest, businesses in Illinois and Wisconsin are taking advantage of valuable incentives to install commercial EV charging stations. Great news for companies in the region: substantial rebates and incentives remain available for electric vehicle charging station sales and installations starting January 1, 2026. These programs, including ComEd's make-ready infrastructure rebates in Illinois, operate on a first-come, first-served basis—so prompt action is essential to secure the funding. At Thayer Energy Solutions, your premier commercial EV charging station installation and sales company headquartered in Rockford, IL, we proudly serve businesses throughout Illinois and Wisconsin. From Chicago and its suburbs to Rockford, Milwaukee, Madison, and beyond, our team delivers expert solutions for Level 2 and DC fast chargers. Whether you're a business owner, fleet operator, retail center manager, or property owner looking to attract EV-driving customers and employees, these incentives can dramatically reduce your costs. Let's explore the details and how we can help you capitalize on them. Key 2026 EV Charging Incentives for Illinois Businesses In Illinois, particularly in the ComEd service territory (covering northern Illinois including Chicago, Rockford, and surrounding areas), the EV Make-Ready Rebate Program supports commercial and public sector installations by covering infrastructure preparation costs—such as electrical upgrades on both the customer and utility sides of the meter. These rebates apply once chargers are operational. Level 2 EV Charger Incentives Level 2 chargers are perfect for workplaces, offices, apartments, hotels, retail locations, and fleets needing reliable, faster charging. ● Rebate Amount: Up to $5,333 per port (base); potentially higher (up to $8,000 per port) for qualifying low-income, equity investment eligible communities (EIEC), or environmental justice areas. ● Details: Maximum of 10 ports per project. ● Why It Matters: This can offset a major portion of installation expenses, enabling multi-port setups to serve more users and enhance your business's sustainability appeal. DC Fast Charger Incentives For high-traffic sites like convenience stores, travel centers, logistics hubs, or fleet depots, DC fast chargers deliver quick turnaround charging. ● Rebate Amount: Up to $667 per kW (base); up to $1,000 per kW in qualifying equity or low-income areas. ● Details: Minimum 50 kW output per charger; maximum rebate $500,000 per site. ● Why It Matters: These rebates significantly lower the barrier for high-power installations critical for supporting long-haul travel and commercial fleets. Additionally, stack these with the federal 30C Alternative Fuel Infrastructure Tax Credit (up to 30% of costs, capped at $100,000 per station, available through June 30, 2026) for maximum savings. These Illinois EV charging incentives are first-come, first-served and funded under programs like the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act—demand is high, so funds can deplete quickly. Opportunities for Wisconsin Businesses In Wisconsin, utilities like We Energies offer pilot programs and incentives to support commercial EV charging infrastructure, including credits for utility upgrades and potential rebates for on-site electrical work. These help offset costs for installing chargers at businesses, fleets, employee parking, or public-facing locations. Combined with federal tax credits, Wisconsin companies can achieve substantial savings while building EV-ready facilities. Thayer Energy Solutions serves Wisconsin businesses comprehensively, ensuring your project qualifies for available utility programs and federal incentives. Partner with Thayer Energy Solutions to Maximize Your Savings Based in Rockford, IL, and serving Illinois and Wisconsin, Thayer Energy Solutions provides full-service support for commercial EV charging projects. We handle: ● Equipment Sales: High-quality Level 2 and DC fast chargers from trusted brands, built for Midwest durability. ● Full Turnkey Installation: From site evaluation and permitting to electrical upgrades, installation, and activation—we manage it all. ● Incentive Assistance: We guide you through applications for ComEd rebates (in Illinois), utility programs (in Wisconsin), and federal credits to secure funding before it's gone. ● Tailored Midwest Solutions: Our installations withstand harsh winters, feature smart energy management, and include remote monitoring for efficiency. By choosing Thayer Energy Solutions, you invest in a future-proof asset that boosts property appeal, supports sustainability goals, attracts customers, and lowers long-term energy costs. Why Act Now? These First-Come, First-Served Incentives Won't Last With EV registrations rising rapidly in Illinois and Wisconsin, infrastructure demand is exploding. Past funding rounds filled quickly, leaving late applicants without rebates. Don't miss out—combine state/utility incentives with federal credits for the best returns. Installing commercial EV chargers positions your business as a forward-thinking leader in the Midwest's green transition. Contact Thayer Energy Solutions Today Ready to electrify your Illinois or Wisconsin property? Call or email Nicole at Thayer Energy Solutions now to review your project, confirm eligibility, and apply for incentives before they run out. We're your local experts—serving Rockford, Chicago, Milwaukee, and the entire Midwest with professional, reliable EV charging solutions. ● Phone: 815-242-6450 ● Email: nicole@thayerenergysolutions.com ● Website: www.thayerenergysolutions.com Secure your 2026 EV charging incentives in Illinois and Wisconsin today—contact us and let's power a sustainable future together!

As of January 2026, Illinois has begun phasing out fluorescent lighting with the Clean Lighting Act, starting with a ban on screw-base and bayonet-base compact fluorescent lamps. But the clock is ticking louder for businesses relying on linear fluorescent tubes – all sales and distribution will be prohibited after December 31, 2026. This means that by 2027, finding replacements for your outdated fluorescent bulbs will become nearly impossible. For Illinois companies, now is the critical time to act on LED lighting retrofits to avoid disruptions, comply with new regulations, and unlock substantial savings. At Thayer Energy Solutions, we specialize in commercial LED lighting installations and retrofits for businesses in the Rockford, IL, and Stateline area. Our expert team helps you transition seamlessly to energy-efficient LED systems, reducing operating costs while enhancing your facility's performance. Don't wait until supplies dwindle – convert to LED lighting today and take full advantage of available incentives before they're gone. Understanding the Illinois Fluorescent Bulb Ban: What It Means for Your Business Illinois is joining a growing number of states in banning mercury-containing fluorescent bulbs to promote environmental safety and energy efficiency. The partial ban, effective January 1, 2026, targets compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) with screw or bayonet bases. However, the full impact hits in 2027, when pin-base CFLs and linear fluorescent tubes – the workhorses of commercial lighting in offices, warehouses, retail spaces, and factories – will no longer be sold or distributed. This isn't just a regulatory change; it's a wake-up call for businesses still using outdated fluorescent lighting. Stockpiling bulbs isn't a long-term solution, as they'll eventually burn out, leaving you scrambling for alternatives. Switching to LED lighting retrofits in Illinois now ensures compliance, avoids future headaches, and positions your business for long-term energy savings. Why Now? The Urgent Case for LED Lighting Conversion in Illinois Procrastinating on your LED upgrade could cost you dearly. With the fluorescent bulb ban in Illinois looming, prices for remaining stock may spike, and availability will plummet. But beyond avoidance, converting to LED lighting offers immediate and lasting benefits that directly impact your bottom line. Massive Savings on Utilities and Maintenance LED lighting uses up to 75% less energy than fluorescent bulbs, slashing your utility bills significantly. For a typical commercial space, this translates to thousands in annual savings. Plus, LEDs last 25 times longer, reducing replacement and maintenance costs. At Thayer Energy Solutions, we calculate your projected ROI during our free consultations, showing how LED retrofits pay for themselves quickly through energy efficiency. Better Lighting Leads to Better Production Poor lighting from aging fluorescent bulbs can hinder visibility, leading to slower workflows and reduced output. LED lighting provides brighter, more consistent illumination with better color rendering, helping employees spot details faster and work more efficiently. Businesses in manufacturing, warehousing, and retail see noticeable productivity boosts after upgrading to LED systems tailored by experts like Thayer Energy Solutions. Fewer Accidents and Safer Work Environments Dim or flickering fluorescent lights increase the risk of slips, trips, and errors. High-quality LED lighting eliminates these issues, creating safer spaces that comply with OSHA standards. Studies show that improved lighting can reduce workplace accidents by up to 60%, protecting your team and minimizing liability. Improved Employee Morale and Well-Being Harsh fluorescent lighting often causes eye strain, headaches, and fatigue, dragging down morale. LEDs offer natural, flicker-free light that mimics daylight, fostering a more comfortable and motivating atmosphere. Happier employees mean lower turnover and higher engagement – a win for any Illinois business. Seize the Great Incentive Opportunities for LED Retrofits in Illinois Right now, Illinois offers fantastic incentives to make your LED lighting upgrade even more affordable. Utilities like Ameren Illinois and ComEd provide rebates for interior and exterior LED projects, including networked controls that further optimize energy use. Small businesses can also access grants up to $1,500 through programs like the Illinois Green Business Association's energy efficiency rebates, covering LED upgrades and more – but these funds are limited and first-come, first-served. Thayer Energy Solutions handles all the paperwork, incorporating every available rebate and incentive into your project. Whether you're in Rockford or the surrounding areas, our turnkey LED retrofit services ensure you maximize savings while getting industry-leading products and professional installation. Take Advantage of This Opportunity Before It's Too Late The Illinois fluorescent bulb ban after December 31, 2026, is a clear signal: the era of inefficient lighting is ending. By partnering with Thayer Energy Solutions for your LED lighting retrofit, you'll future-proof your business, cut costs, and enhance operations. Don't let time run out – contact us today while LED incentives are still available. Thayer Energy Solutions 815.282.1112 thayerenergysolutions.com Ready to brighten your future? Reach out to Patti Thayer for a no-obligation assessment and start saving with energy-efficient LED lighting in Illinois.