IL HB5388

Creates the Solar Energy Reliability and Affordability Checkoff Program Act, establishing a 2 cents per watt assessment on all solar energy systems sold for installation in Illinois, paid by owners, operators, or developers to the Department of Agriculture

Establishes a 7-member Solar Energy Reliability and Affordability Board appointed by the Governor by December 31, 2026, consisting of representatives from community solar, utility-scale solar, residential solar, and solar trade associations

Fund revenues must be used for research, communication, marketing, and education programs promoting solar energy adoption and accurate information about clean energy benefits; funds cannot be used for political activity

Board administrative costs are capped at 5% of annual assessments; the assessment may be increased every 2 years based on inflation but cannot exceed 0.5% of wholesale product value

Requires annual financial and activities reports and mandatory annual audits by a certified public accountant; late payments subject to up to 10% penalty plus collection costs