Ryan Backed Legislation to Reduce Raising Energy Cost Signed Into Law

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

“Families feel the pressure from energy costs most around this time, during winter.Cold weather means higher energy consumption for heating, which, combined with the general increase in utility rates, places a significant burden on household budgets,” said Ryan. “That’s why, now that the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act has been signed into law, there’s a higher potential for families across the state to receive immediate and much-needed relief when it comes to rising energy costs, not only now, but looking ahead into the hotter months.” 

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 115,000 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. 

“This isn’t just about utility bills; it’s about making sure that families can expect and rely on  fair costs when it comes to keeping their homes lit and at safe temperatures.” said Ryan “Helping struggling families in our community and across the state is one way we can start building a brighter future for everyone.”