Letters: We need permitting reform to ensure affordable energy

Thanks for the article “Energy bill gives Illinois regulators new powers” (Nov. 9). Under new state energy legislation, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) will have new powers to help ensure the state can produce enough electricity to meet its growing energy and economic needs. An “all of the above” strategy is likely to be required for a longer period than originally anticipated to meet that demand. Over time, it’s likely market forces will favor clean renewable energy versus fossil fuels, since clean energy is often lower-cost and faster to get onto the grid.

But there is a wild card here. Illinois could face higher electricity bills not just because of its own demand shortfalls but also because of shortages in other states. Different areas of our state are part of multistate regi