SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — The Illinois House is taking a big step toward slowing climate change with the approval of a compromise clean energy package.
The goal is to eliminate carbon emissions by 2050 and keep the state’s nuclear fleet up and running.
The legislation includes incentives for purchasing electric vehicles and investment in wind and solar power. Representative Robyn Gabel is a big supporter.
“This legislation will take meaningful action to address environmental priorities that are absolutely critical to us all. It will preserve jobs, it will create jobs,” Gabel said.
As for one of the biggest sticking points, municipally owned coal fired power plants will have to reduce carbon emissions by 45% by 2035, and then close in 2045 if they can’t reach zero emissions.
Rep. Dan Brady of Bloomington said the package will come at a price.
“And, I know one thing…when citizens across the state open their power bill, or going online to see it, they’re not going to like it. And, they’re going to remember it’s courtesy of this bill,” Brady said.
The clean energy bill will add on average about four or five dollars to monthly bills. It still needs Senate approval.
