DuBuclet Takes Bold Action During Fall Veto Session to Cut Rising Energy Costs

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Kimberly DuBuclet, D-Chicago, passed comprehensive new legislation Wednesday evening to address rising energy costs make life easier for working families across Illinois.

“While a rise in energy costs during the warmer months is expected, what we saw this summer was unprecedented,” said DuBuclet. “No one should have to contemplate if they should pay for food or light, but as prices for necessities continue to rise, that has become a reality for many. Our community sent me to Springfield in part to relieve financial burdens that can make some days feel so hard, and the measure we passed today is a major step towards making that goal a reality.”

DuBuclet passed Senate Bill 25, which creates the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA). In areas served by ComEd, energy rates rose by 47% from last year to the past summer according to the Citizens Utility Board. CRGA will reverse that trajectory by reducing prices through a mixed effort that includes utilizing batteries to store and deploy energy generated from renewable sources, and expanding energy efficiency programs to help ensure households have the most cost-effective appliances. In addition to implementing these cost-saving measures, the bill is also expected to create good-paying jobs for 115,000 across our state.

“As a lifelong champion of environmental justice, I put my total support behind CRGA,” said DuBuclet. “Simply put, this legislation cuts costs for working families, creates jobs and increases our power grid without putting the splendor of our natural world at risk.”