Vella Backed Legislation Addressing Rising Energy Cost Signed into Law

ROCKFORD, Ill. – Comprehensive legislation to bring down home energy bills, hold large utility corporations accountable and create jobs that state Rep. Dave Vella, D-Rockford, passed last fall and was signed into law today, marking a victory in his efforts to cut the cost of living.

“In Rockford, families feel energy costs most in the winter, when keeping the heat on is non-negotiable,” said Vella. “This law helps bring real relief to households that are tired of choosing between paying their utility bill and covering everyday necessities.”

Many Illinois residents have seen home energy costs skyrocket. Increased power demands from new high-tech businesses and Washington’s massive tax bill threaten to raise costs even further—resulting in $9.5 billion in increased state energy expenses. The Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (Senate Bill 25) puts Illinois on better footing to counteract rising energy prices.

• • Capturing clean energy: By capturing and redistributing energy already being produced, including from home solar panels, ComEd customers can see substantial 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: By directly expanding energy efficiency programs for residents, Senate Bill 25 lowers electricity prices by reducing overall demand and improves equity in programs by allocating a minimum amount of funds to support low-income customers.

The measure will additionally create up to 100,000 jobs, counteracting job insecurity and layoffs caused by the federal budget bill— including over 50,000 lost manufacturing jobs in Illinois. As utility demands increase during the winter months, Senate Bill 25 will play a significant role in meeting the state’s energy needs, strengthening reliability and helping manage untenable costs for customers for both short- and long-term relief. 

“Rockford residents deserve an energy system that is fair to them, not one that shifts rising costs onto working people,” said Vella. “This legislation prioritizes families and communities  so customers aren’t left carrying the burden.”