Three Senators are raising concerns about the stability of Illinois’ power supply and the urgent need to boost energy generation. At a Capitol press conference on Thursday, State Senators Sue Rezin, Sally Turner, and Terri Bryant highlighted the challenges facing the state’s power grid and the role that new nuclear developments should play in strengthening supply and keeping costs down for families and businesses.
The lawmakers pointed to Senate Bill 1527, which repeals the state’s moratorium on building new nuclear reactors, as a key step toward meeting Illinois’ future energy needs. Lifting the moratorium would allow the state to explore advanced, next-generation nuclear technology that can deliver clean, reliable, and affordable energy, helping ensure that Illinois families aren’t left paying more for less.
They also highlighted Senate Bill 94, which would ensure that data centers owned by foreign adversaries do not put additional strain on Illinois’ already overburdened power grid. The legislation would require such centers to provide their own source of energy. With increasing energy demands from data centers, AI-driven technology, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing, the Senators stressed that Illinois must take proactive steps to protect energy reliability and affordability, while supporting job creation and economic growth here at home.
The Senators are calling on the General Assembly to act swiftly on these bills to address Illinois’ growing energy needs and ensure the state remains a leader in nuclear innovation.