In the face of steep summer electric price hikes, Illinois is considering significant energy reforms aimed at stabilizing costs and advancing clean energy initiatives. The proposed Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability (CRGA) Act is at the center of these efforts, promising to bolster renewable energy projects across the state.
The Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition (ICJC), alongside various stakeholders, is actively advocating for the passage of the CRGA Act during the Illinois General Assembly’s October veto session. This legislation seeks to integrate battery storage into community solar projects and enhance grid infrastructure, facilitating the state’s transition to renewable energy by 2050.
Customers of Illinois’ largest utility, Commonwealth Edison Co. (ComEd), experienced a 45 percent increase in their electricity rates this summer. Meanwhile, Ameren customers faced a 50 percent spike. These hikes were driven by increased grid capacity charges following energy auctions by PJM Interconnection and the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO).
Sarah Moskowitz, executive director of the Citizens Utility Board, emphasized the consumer benefits of the CRGA Act. “This legislation helps consumers by improving their own access to energy efficiency measures for their own homes, improving their own access to support if they want to install battery storage or if they want to take part in a virtual power plant,” Moskowitz stated. The legislation includes plans to add 6 gigawatts of battery storage to the grid, aiming to reduce power demands and lower electricity costs.
The proposed act also provides for rebates to consumers for home weatherization, efficient appliance purchases, and increased funding for low-income energy efficiency programs. It envisions a virtual power plant initiative, which would aggregate multiple small-scale solar and storage projects to optimize grid efficiency.
Originally introduced by State Rep. Ann Williams, the CRGA Act faced delays due to disagreements over financing and regulatory issues. However, proponents are hopeful for its passage in the current legislative session, viewing it as an extension of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) of 2021, which aims for 100 percent clean energy in Illinois by 2050.
Jennifer Walling, executive director of the Illinois Environmental Council, supports CRGA for its potential to expedite renewable energy deployment, noting, “CRGA fast tracks renewable energy development in Illinois, and also storage, which is a critical part of advancing renewable energy.”
Amid rising grid demands from data centers and other high-energy consumers, the CRGA Act promises a more resilient grid capable of handling increased loads. Jon Carson of Trajectory Energy Partners highlighted the role of battery storage in community solar projects, explaining that it would allow for more strategic energy management and cost savings.
Communities like Waukegan, already burdened by environmental challenges, have felt the pinch of rising energy costs. Mayra Mendez of Clean Power Lake County noted the importance of CRGA in providing relief through lower bills and fostering clean energy solutions.
Ultimately, the adoption of the CRGA Act could position Illinois as a leader in the Midwest’s clean energy landscape. Jon Carson remarked, “I think as we establish that dominant leadership role, the rest of the Midwestern states are eventually going to have to follow.”
Original Story at insideclimatenews.org