If you're participating in solar energy incentive programs like SREC, GATS, or Illinois’ ABP (Adjustable Block Program), you may have questions about how these programs work and what to expect. Below are answers to some frequently asked questions to help you navigate these opportunities.
🔄 Acronyms to Know:
SREC – Solar Renewable Energy Certificate
GATS – Generation Attribute Tracking System
ABP – Adjustable Block Program (Illinois Shine Program)
REC – Renewable Energy Credit
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the GATS/SREC Program?
A:
GATS and SREC are solar incentive programs that allow you to report and sell your system's solar renewable energy certificates (SRECs) to eligible buyers.
GATS: You will be responsible for manually reporting your system’s production.
SREC: Your system is automatically monitored through SRECTrade, a third-party platform that tracks and manages your system's production data.
Q: What is the ABP – Illinois Shine Program?
A:
The Adjustable Block Program (ABP), also known as the Illinois Shine Program, provides a lump-sum incentive based on your system’s estimated renewable energy credit (REC) generation over its lifespan. This program is only available in Illinois.
Q: Will I still receive Net Metering credits if I'm enrolled in GATS/SREC?
A:
Yes, it is possible to receive both SRECs and Net Metering from your utility provider. However, policies can vary.
➡️ Please contact your utility company directly to confirm your eligibility and how their net metering program integrates with SREC participation.
Q: When will my application be approved?
A:
Incentive applications are submitted after your system receives Permission to Operate (PTO).
SREC approval: Typically takes around 30 days
ABP approval: Currently estimated at 10–14 weeks
These timeframes can vary based on program demand and regional processing times.
Q: How will I know when I’m approved for SREC or GATS?
A:
Once your application is approved, you will receive communication from Freedom Forever that includes:
Sign-in credentials
Instructions to take ownership of the incentive platforms from Freedom Forever
Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to complete your enrollment and start managing your incentives.