Illinois lawmakers passed a bill aimed at boosting the development [1] of renewable energy generation. The legislation, which passed the Senate 39-16 and the House 74-39, is seen as a crucial step towards addressing the state’s clean energy goals. However, critics argue that the bill was only a fraction of the version of what they had hoped to pass.
The bill comes as several state officials warn that Illinois is falling behind on its clean energy goals. The state’s funding for renewable energy projects also face a potential $3 billion budget shortfall in the coming years.
The bill grants state regulators more authority to balance the budget for a key renewable energy financing tool, partially by shifting financial risk to electric utility customers. This change is expected to create a more flexible and sustainable funding mechanism for renewable energy projects across the state. Additionally, the bill sets up a comprehensive study of energy storage technology, which is intended to form the basis of a new bill later this year.
Supporters of the bill, such as Rep. Robyn Gabel, said “We’ve seen the effects of climate change. We’ve seen the effects on storms, extreme storms, extreme heat, extreme cold. This is something we must do. We must move from fossil fuel, which emits carbon into the atmosphere, to renewable energy. This bill has a few small changes that will help us get renewable energy on the grid.”
He further stressed “This legislation is a vital step in ensuring that Illinois remains at the forefront of the clean energy movement,” Gabel stated.
Opponents of the bill, including several Republican lawmakers, expressed concerns about the financial burden it might place on electric utility customers. “While we support the development of renewable energy, we must ensure that it does not come at the expense of our constituents,” said Sen. Jason Barickman.
The bill also includes provisions to encourage private investment in renewable energy projects and to enhance the state’s infrastructure for clean energy production. These measures are designed to attract new businesses and create jobs within the renewable energy sector.
One key aspect of the bill is the establishment of a task force to study and recommend best practices for energy storage technology. The task force will explore innovative solutions to store renewable energy, ensuring a reliable and consistent clean power supply. This initiative is seen as a critical component of Illinois’ long-term strategy to achieve its clean energy goals.
The bill will now head to Governor J.B. Pritzker’s desk for final approval before becoming law. Governor Pritzker has been a strong advocate for renewable energy and is expected to sign the bill into law. “This legislation aligns with our vision of a sustainable and prosperous future for Illinois,” Pritzker stated. “By investing in renewable energy, we are investing in the health and well-being of our communities.”
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[1] Illinois lawmakers give small boost to renewable developments, delay broader reform https://www.renewableenergyworld.com/energy-business/policy-and-regulation/illinois-lawmakers-give-small-boost-to-renewable-developments-delay-broader-reform/