Earlier this year, Ameren and ComEd announced summer electricity rates would increase significantly. These increases are the result of energy grid capacity auctions and the ongoing strain on Illinois’ power supply.

Senate Republicans say the blame for the current rate hikes and supply issues in Illinois’ energy sector lies squarely with failed policies pushed by Democrat lawmakers that have forced reliable power plants offline and blocked construction of new ones.

To fight back, Senate Republicans are calling for the passage of their energy legislative package when the General Assembly returns for its fall Veto Session. The legislative package would:

• Create a task force to examine how state energy policies are impacting prices and reliability (SB 1234),
• Repeal the forced closure date for fossil fuel plants and allow new peaker plants to be built (SB 1235), and
• Cut permitting delays that have stalled projects like the Lincoln Land Energy Center (SB 1236).

In the meantime, Illinois residents looking for ways to reduce their energy usage and lower their monthly bills can visit the Senate Republican Caucus’ Energy Savings FAQ page.