Governor JB Pritzker has signed Senate Bill 25, also known as the CRGA energy bill, into law. The legislation focuses on battery storage and broader energy policy changes in Illinois. Supporters argue that it will promote green energy initiatives, but critics warn it may lead to higher utility costs for residents and businesses.
The passage of SB 25 follows a recent study by three state agencies that warned of a “credible risk” of electricity shortages in Illinois within the next five years.
State Representative Chris Miller responded to the signing with strong criticism. He stated: “This isn’t an energy bill; it’s an environmental giveaway that gives power to unelected bureaucrats to raise energy rates in the future and believe me they will. Small businesses this past summer saw their electricity rates double and triple from last summer. Now, these lunatics are mandating more green scams that are forcing companies to close their doors and letting other companies know not to do business in the state of Illinois. One thing is clear, Pritzker and the Democrats don’t care about Illinois citizens.”
Business leaders have also expressed concern over potential impacts on jobs and costs. Jim Sweeney, President-Business Manager of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 150, said: “A government-mandated full electrification policy would be a disaster for working families. It would wipe out thousands of good-paying union jobs, destabilize an already overburdened electric grid, and send energy bills through the roof—projected to increase more than 2,000 percent for businesses and consumers. There’s a smarter path forward. We can reduce emissions without gutting the energy systems that millions of Illinoisans rely on every day. Keeping natural gas in the mix isn’t just common sense—it’s essential to protecting union jobs, maintaining grid reliability, and keeping energy affordable for working families.”
Chris Miller was elected as a Republican representative for Illinois’ 101st House District in 2023 after replacing Reggie Phillips.
