Demonstrates an Expedited Path to Grid Reliability and Clean Energy in Illinois

GIBSON CITY, Ill. — June 26, 2026 — Earthrise Energy (“Earthrise”), an independent power producer, today announced that its Archtop Solar Project (the “Project”), comprising Gibson City Solar 1 and 2, and totaling a collective 270 MWac, achieved its Commercial Operation Date (“COD”) at 12:01 a.m. on June 9, 2026, illustrating Earthrise’s differentiated approach to accelerating renewable energy deployment by leveraging existing grid infrastructure and coordinating operations with dispatchable generation resources.

The project is the inaugural application of Earthrise’ surplus interconnection strategy. Through this approach, 270 MW of new solar generation can utilize the existing grid infrastructure of Earthrise Energy’s Gibson City natural gas-fired peaking facility. The model provides renewable energy to the grid when available, while maintaining the reliability benefits of fast-start generation capable of responding during periods of peak demand.

“We believe the successful commercial operation of Archtop validates our model that can help address one of the most significant challenges facing the energy industry today: how to bring new generation online fast enough to meet growing demand,” said Jeff Hunter, Chief Executive Officer of Earthrise Energy. “Illinois needs additional energy resources now, and this project demonstrates that innovative use of existing infrastructure can accelerate deployment timelines while supporting Governor Pritzker’s vision for a clean and reliable energy future. We believe this approach has the potential to serve as a blueprint for future development across the region.”

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Earthrise is actively developing a ~1.5 gigawatt pipeline through five solar projects across Illinois that seek to leverage this approach to quickly delivering stable renewable power to the grid. The projects include Northwest and Glacier Moraine Solar in Cumberland and Coles Counties, Plum Valley and Pride of the Prairie Solar in Will County and Tilton Solar in Vermillion County.

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