Lisa Hernandez Legislation Lowering Energy Costs Signed into Law

JOLIET, Ill. – Legislation backed by state Rep. Elizabeth ‘Lisa’ Hernandez, D-Cicero, to lower energy costs, expand availability of cheap, renewable energy and make more Illinoisans eligible for home energy programs was signed into law earlier today. 

“As our economy continues to grow and attract advanced, 21st century industries, our energy grid is struggling to keep up, leading to higher costs for everyday Illinoisans,” Hernandez said. “Too many in my community are facing two, or three-fold increases in their monthly bills, without the available funds to pay those bills. By expanding access to renewable wind and solar energy, investing in quality battery storage and opening up eligibility to pre-existing affordable energy programs, we can help offset these rising utility costs and help make ends meet. These reforms will create immediate and long-term relief for families across our state.” 

The Hernandez-backed Senate Bill 25 puts Illinois on a better footing to counteract rising costs by: 

• Capturing clean energy: By capturing and redistributing energy already being produced, including from home solar panels, ComEd customers can see immediate relief on monthly costs.
• Increasing battery storage: By building out our grid to increase the state’s battery storage, power systems will become more reliable and affordable to power millions of Illinois homes.
• Investing in energy efficiency programs: Senate Bill 25 directly expands energy efficiency programs for residents, lowering electricity prices by reducing overall demand, and improves equity in programs by allocating a minimum amount of funds to support low-income customers.

Additionally, the measure will create up to 115,000 jobs, counteracting job insecurity and layoffs caused by federal cuts. 

“Not only is this a cost saving measure, it’s a job creator,” Hernandez said. “We’re making the infrastructure investments necessary to meet the demands of today and tomorrow, keeping our lights on, homes warm and lives running.”