Grasse-Backed Energy Package Aims to Reduce Utility Rates

ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. – A new energy affordability law backed by state Rep. Nicolle Grasse, D-Arlington Heights, aims to provide relief to Illinoisans facing rising energy costs.

“Families shouldn’t have to choose between paying their utility bill or putting food on the table,” Grasse said. “I’m pleased we got this measure to the governor’s desk quickly, so families can start seeing dollars back on their bill as early as this month.”

Many Illinois residents have seen home energy costs skyrocket due to increased power demand and Washington’s massive tax bill—resulting in $9.5 billion in increased state energy costs. 

The Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (Senate Bill 25) puts Illinois on better footing to counteract rising energy prices, both immediately and in the long-term, by:

• Capturing clean energy: By capturing and redistributing energy already being produced, including from home solar panels, Ameren and 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 and improves equity by allocating a minimum amount of funds to support low-income customers.

The measure will additionally create up to 115,000 jobs, counteracting job insecurity and layoffs caused by the federal budget bill— including over 50,000 lost manufacturing jobs in Illinois. 

“This legislation further cements Illinois’ status as a national leader in clean energy initiatives,” Grasse said. “When we can take steps to cut costs for consumers, boost our state’s manufacturing industry and extend a huge favor for our planet, it’s a win-win-win for all involved.”

Senate Bill 25 was signed into law earlier today.