Article Summary

An energy policy package incentivizing battery storage passed the General Assembly with only Democratic support and will likely become law, as Gov. JB Pritzker pledged to sign it.

The bill creates a new funding mechanism for energy storage projects, lifts the state’s ban on new large-scale nuclear power, creates requirements for utilities to implement energy efficiency programs and more.

Renewable industry groups and environmentalists generally supported the package, with the loudest opposition coming from large electric consumers like manufacturers. The union-backed Climate Jobs Illinois supported the final bill.

Debate centered on affordability, with critics worried about a guaranteed increase to utility bills. The bill’s supporters said it will ultimately suppress ri

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