Sangamon Sun

The proposed "Grain Belt Express" transmission line, intended to carry wind-generated electricity from the Kansas Great Plains to Indiana, faces an uncertain future as it encounters resistance from private property owners in Central Illinois. The 800-mile high-voltage line is designed to transport green energy but would be constructed on private lands, raising concerns among local residents.

Numerous Illinoisans have expressed opposition to the construction of new high-tension "green energy" lines near their properties. Questions about the operational impact of these lines and the financing behind the "Grain Belt Express" project have been raised. Under Illinois law, developers must demonstrate secured financing and provide detailed customer data before proceeding with construction. This requirement aims to protect property owners from being burdened with incomplete projects.

Last week, the 5th District Illinois Appellate Court issued a unanimous decision in "Concerned Citizens & Property Owners v. Illinois Commerce Commission," stating that as of August 2024, the "Grain Belt Express" has not yet met the necessary financing or customer base requirements to build on private properties in Illinois. Unless reversed on appeal, this decision could halt further planning and construction of the project. The court's ruling focused solely on financial aspects without addressing consumer safety or green energy benefits.

The Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB) was one of the plaintiffs in the successful lawsuit against "Grain Belt Express." The appellate decision was published on Friday, August 16.

In related news, Representative Coffey toured the Kincaid Power Plant to discuss energy issues in Illinois. “Illinois will soon see an energy crisis if we continue to shut down coal-powered facilities with no clear solution to replace energy sources,” said Rep. Coffey. “Our residents and businesses need affordable energy rates, and we need legislation to ensure costs don’t skyrocket out of control. I will continue to fight for reliable and affordable energy.”