Sangamon Sun

Illinois House Minority Leader Tony McCombie has introduced a legislative package aimed at revising the state's Environmental Protection Act. This move is intended to address impending deadlines for closing coal and natural gas-fired power plants, which were set by legislation enacted in 2021. Under current law, all such plants must close by 2045, with additional restrictions on gas-fired facilities beginning in 2030 as part of the Climate & Equitable Jobs Act.

As these deadlines approach and energy demands increase, McCombie believes it is crucial to reconsider these timelines and explore new solutions. "We must take a realistic approach to the future of energy in Illinois," said McCombie. She emphasized the need for continuous dialogue among stakeholders and lawmakers regarding current energy demands and the challenges posed by goals for clean energy.

State Representative Mike Coffey supports this legislative effort. He expressed concerns about Illinois potentially overbuilding projects that would produce less energy compared to coal, warning that without real solutions, the state might face high costs from importing energy.

The proposed bills aim to initiate important discussions on ensuring a stable and reliable power supply for Illinois as it navigates its energy future.