Sangamon Sun

Springfield Mayor Jim Langfelder wants voters to know just how high the stakes are in the battle to keep energy plants across the state in business.

“Thank you for everyone's involvement and interest in this life-changing State of Illinois energy legislation that will not only impact our cities but also our state, our country and our world,” Langfelder said at a recent rally. “Springfield City Water Light and Power has continually worked to serve our capital city and our residents with responsible, reliable and affordable energy while reducing its environmental impact.”

Those like Langfelder pushing to keep the plants open and thousands employed argue that none of that seems to matter to Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Democratic lawmakers.

The Climate Union Jobs Act (CUJA) introduced by state Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris) seeks to provide additional renewable energy generation as it puts new accountability and transparency requirements for utilities in place. In addition, the measure seeks to preserve Illinois’ nuclear fleet by ensuring the security of 28,000 existing jobs.

“In 2009, CWLP completed Dallman Unit 4, which was built to meet the Obama administration's environmental standards,” Langfelder said. “Dallman 4 is still one of the cleanest coal-fired units in the country. At the time of its completion the city also purchased 120 megawatts of wind energy representing 20% of Springfield’s energy load, showing a strong commitment to green energy which continues today with current and planned investments in solar energy.”

Langfelder argues the city is well on schedule to reducing carbon emissions and reaching a responsible balance between reliable and sustainable electric resources for the future.

“Our two oldest coal-fired power plants, Dallman 31 and Dallman 32, were retired in 2020 and a third, Dallman 33 will be retired by fall of 2023,” he said. “These retirements represent a 2 million ton per year greenhouse gas reduction and meet the Biden administration's goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50% of 2005 levels by the year 2030.”