East Central Reporter

Chris Miller, a State Representative of Illinois, has expressed concerns about rising energy prices and an unstable grid under current policies. He urged the cessation of green energy programs in a statement made on Facebook.

"If Illinois wants to preserve reliable and affordable energy, we to terminate the Green New Scam now," said Chris G. Miller, State Representative from Illinois, according to Facebook. "Pritzker is gaslighting Illinois residents about the reality of affordable energy in our state. Prices are skyrocketing and our grid is not stable because of his policies. How many more warnings do these people need to understand our state has an energy crisis."

Illinois lawmakers have recently engaged in debates over scaled-back renewable energy legislation amid worries about increasing electricity costs and grid reliability. According to My Journal Courier, the state's efforts to expand wind and solar power through the Clean Energy Jobs Act (CEJA) have slowed. This has led to a narrower bill focusing on battery storage studies and procurement adjustments. Critics argue that these measures fall short of meeting Illinois's ambitious clean energy goals, while supporters claim they represent necessary progress. These discussions highlight growing tensions over affordability and climate policy in Springfield.

As reported by ChooseEnergy, in mid-2025, the average electricity rate in Illinois was 15.25 cents per kilowatt-hour, slightly below the U.S. average of 16.15 cents. Residents consumed an average of 671 kWh monthly, resulting in an estimated bill of $102.39. Although prices remain relatively affordable, increasing demand from data centers and electric vehicles may affect future rate stability.

According to NPR Illinois and the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Chicago-area households paid 16.1 cents per kWh in December 2024—8.5% below the U.S. average of 17.6 cents at that time. By mid-2025, Ameren proposed rate hikes of up to 22% as capacity auction prices surged due to delayed renewable integration and demand growth. These developments have raised new concerns over grid reliability and long-term affordability.

Ballotpedia reports that Rep. Chris Miller is a Republican member of the Illinois House representing the 101st district. A farmer from Oakland, Illinois, he was first elected in 2018 and holds a degree from Eureka College. His legislative focus includes rural issues, energy policy, and conservative governance. He serves on committees related to energy, environment, and economic opportunity.