East Central Reporter

House Republicans in Illinois have raised concerns about an impending energy cost crisis this summer, attributing it to current state energy policies. In a press conference held by members of the Illinois House Energy & Environment and Public Utilities Committees, the focus was on addressing high energy prices and offering solutions to expand production capacity.

The event followed a letter sent to the House’s Energy & Environment Committee Chair and Vice Chair. The letter highlighted the results of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) capacity auction, which showed a significant increase in price to $666.50 per Megawatt-day for the summer, compared to $30 from the previous year.

State Representative Dave Severin (R-Benton), serving as the ranking member on the House Energy & Environment Committee, stated that Illinois’ energy policies are responsible for these cost spikes affecting utility customers. "House Republicans are concerned for the financial future of our constituents and our businesses," Severin said. He emphasized that there is insufficient energy production capacity due to stifled coal, oil, and natural gas industries in Illinois.

State Representative Brad Halbrook (R-Shelbyville) attributed part of the problem to the 2021 Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA), which he claims has led to capacity shortages and price increases. Halbrook compared Illinois' situation with Spain's past energy crisis, warning against ignoring fundamental energy needs in favor of ideological policies.

C.D. Davidsmeyer (R-Murrayville) discussed how CEJA has impacted power generation capacity negatively since its passage in 2021. He noted that under current law, all electricity in Illinois must come from zero-emission sources by 2045, limiting options such as coal.

Davidsmeyer also pointed out that Ameren Illinois customers will see substantial price hikes this summer due to increased capacity charges from MISO auctions. "Prices have skyrocketed...resulting in an approximately 18% to 22% total bill increase for residential Ameren customers," he explained.

In response, House Republicans have proposed several bills aimed at rolling back CEJA provisions:

- HB 4050 seeks to restore greenhouse gas provisions.

- HB 1544 proposes extending deadlines by five years for reduced emissions.

- HB 1545 suggests a ten-year extension for similar requirements.

- HB 1546 aims at extending deadlines by five years specifically for coal-fueled units.

- HB 1547 proposes a ten-year extension for emission reductions.

These legislative efforts reflect their aim to address rising costs while maintaining jobs within Illinois' energy sector.