Hoffman Looks to Lower Energy Costs, Leads Passage of Energy Plan

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Looking to lower home energy costs for residents both immediately and long-term, state Rep. Jay Hoffman, D-Swansea, led passage of the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act on Wednesday, a comprehensive energy plan that will reduce bills, create jobs and strengthen Illinois’ electric grid.

“Every dollar matters for families, and this year too many have been hit by significant increases on their home energy bills,” Hoffman said. “With a growing high-tech economy driving energy costs higher and higher, on average we’re seeing Ameren customers pay up to $46 more per month, and ComEd’s an average of $10.60 more. That’s why we’re taking decisive action to provide immediate relief while better positioning us to see lower consumer energy costs moving forward. I appreciate the constructive negotiations we had this summer with stakeholders to get us here today.”

Backed by data from the Illinois Power Agency, the state’s power planning agency, highlights of Hoffman’s Senate Bill 25 include:

– Virtual Power Plants: By capturing clean energy already being generated as surplus power by home solar panels and other green sources, better coordination through virtual power plants can redistribute energy across the system and lower costs for all consumers. This change is expected to reduce bills by up to $4.34 per month for Ameren customers and up to $1.11 per month for ComEd consumers.

– Increased Battery Storage: Adding battery storage will make the grid more reliable and affordable, further acting as insurance for the system. This improvement is expected to lower bills for Ameren customers by up to $8 per month, and for ComEd users up to $1.90 per month.

– Energy Efficiency: By expanding and investing in energy efficiency programs, Ameren consumers are expected to save up to $1.41 per month, while ComEd customers could see an
additional 30 cents in monthly savings.

Hoffman’s measure also takes into consideration recent federal budget decisions that are expected to increase consumer costs and eliminate thousands of manufacturing and energy jobs. Senate Bill 25 and its associated investments are expected to create up to 115,000 jobs through construction and operating positions.

For more information, please contact RepJayHoffman@gmail.com.