Hanson-Backed Legislation to Address Rising Energy Costs Signed Into Law

MONTGOMERY, Ill. — A new law signed on Thursday will provide Illinoisans immediate and long-term utility bill relief by bringing down energy costs, thanks to legislation supported by state Rep. Matt Hanson, D-Montgomery.

“Over the past year, energy costs have spiked higher than ever before. Illinoisans are having to weigh the cost of utility bills against the need to turn on lights and charge their phones. By signing this bill into law, we’re providing direct and long term financial support for energy costs,” said Hanson.

Over the last year, many Illinois residents have grappled with untenable utility bill costs. Senate Bill 25, The Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act, puts Illinois on better footing to counteract rising energy prices by tapping into:

• 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: By directly expanding energy efficiency programs for residents, lowering electricity prices by reducing overall demand, and improving 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. As utility demands increase during the winter months, it 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.

“This year’s legislative session is approaching fast, and I’m prioritizing bills like this that offer direct relief for Illinoisans. Step by step, I continue to work toward communities we can afford, because every day shouldn’t be so hard.”

Senate Bill 25 was signed yesterday.