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Illinois energy bill goes to Governor’s desk with many negatives for rural residents

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker plans to sign the state’s new energy bill into law as soon as possible, after the Senate passed legislation on Monday.

While Pritzker touts the bill as historic by putting Illinois on a path toward 100% clean energy while keeping consumers and climate at the forefront, the Director of State Legislation for Illinois Farm Bureau Kevin Semlow tells Brownfield the legislation will result in the loss of farmland in at least 9 counties.

“Now we have private utility companies wanting to take power through Illinois from one state to another who can now do so using eminent domain powers. So, they are taking someone’s private land to make a profit and our members are very update about this.”

He says that sets a bad precedent as other private companies seek eminent domain powers. He says implementation of the law will also increase utility costs immensely.

“We’ve heard numbers anywhere from $3.50 increase per month for residential property, up to $25. The on thing that is for certain is we will all see increased energy rates to pay for all of this as the state is on the cutting edge of clean energy.”

The legislation also requires municipal coal and natural gas plants to be carbon free by 2045, meaning Prairie State Energy in Marissa and CWLP Dallman in Springfield will face closure if that goal is not met.

Interview with Kevin Semlow

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