In a sweeping change to Illinois energy policy, Governor Pritzker has signed a law that eliminates long-standing limits on how much utilities can raise electric rates.
The law opens the door to significant increases in future bills and directs large sums of money toward experimental energy programs that may offer little relief to consumers.
The law also weakens local control by allowing large battery storage facilities to be placed as close as 150 feet from homes and farms. Many families and community leaders are concerned about safety, property values, and the lack of local input.
“This law shifts enormous financial risk onto ratepayers by removing meaningful limits on rate increases and placing more decision-making power in the hands of unelected regulators,” said State Senator Sue Rezin. “Families and businesses will be asked to pay more, while having less transparency into how those costs are approved.”
Senate Republicans warn that the new mandates, higher costs, and reduced oversight will make energy less affordable and reliable. Families already struggling with high utility bills may face even greater financial pressure as a result of this law.