On October 14, lawmakers, consumer activists and members of the renewable energy industry joined a broad coalition of organizations calling for immediate implementation of the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability (CRGA) Act during Illinois’ fall veto session. This legislation responds to the urgent need to address the skyrocketing electricity costs for consumers and businesses.
“Simply put, we need to pass the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act, now. The cost of inaction is what Illinois taxpayers are paying, and every day we wait guarantees more pain for consumers and businesses in the future,” said Jeff Danielson, SVP of advocacy for the Clean Grid Alliance. “If passed, this bill would direct the state to invest in solutions that promote the stability and reliability of our electric grid while lowering costs to consumers.”
CRGA would provide relief to consumers across Illinois, whose bills have increased by as much as 50% since last summer, and whose bills will continue to rise following the results of the 2026/2027 PJM Capacity Auction. If passed, CRGA would create an energy storage program, a Virtual Power Plant program and other policies aimed at supporting Illinois’ available electricity supply to meet record demand.
The legislation will create a net savings of $34 billion on Illinois energy bills over 20 years, according to an analysis by The Energy Agencyand is expected to save consumers up to $20.54 per month, according to the Illinois Power Agency.
“Illinois families and businesses are feeling the pain of higher costs of living and historic energy prices, and they are letting their lawmakers know. The Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act is the only proposed solution that will lower energy prices for all Illinois ratepayers while investing in the future of Illinois’ electric grid,” said Lesley McCain, executive director of the Illinois Solar Energy and Storage Association.
The Illinois Legislature will vote on the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act during the first week of the fall veto session.
News release from Solar Powers Illinois
