Despite being a small state, Illinois has a large energy mix. The overall capacity of Illinois’ energy generation is substantial and includes 34 coal-fired power stations and five nuclear plants. This makes the state a major exporter of electricity and an important energy hub for the country. But it also means that the state is able to transition to a more green and sustainable energy source. This will be especially important as the country transitions towards an economy that is circular.
In hot weather during summer, the Illinois grid of energy struggles to keep up with the demands. However, as more electrification of transportation is completed, the need for power will increase. The state is building new capacity in the non-utility sector as a result. This means that utilities companies aren’t the only options available to energy users. The state also deregulated its Northshore Gas market. This has allowed new power suppliers to join the market.
Although the state’s total energy generation capacity is heavily dominated by coal and nuclear but it is on track to becoming 100 renewable by 2050. In March 2019 the state’s electricity production was 77% natural gas and 54% from renewables. The state’s nuclear fleet, which generates 86 per cent of its power without using carbon dioxide, is the largest in the nation. The Illinois nuclear fleet has the longest lifespan in the country and currently supplies a substantial part of the state’s electric power.
The state has two electric grids. One for northern Illinois, and another for the majority of the Midcontinent region. The state’s energy delivery system can also be divided into regional transmission networks. These systems ensure reliable energy supply, however planning intrastate transmissions can be difficult. Recently, the Federal Energy Commission (FEC), proposed overhauls to the intrastate transmission network.
The ability of the state to produce and distribute clean electricity can be significantly impacted by the Clean Energy Jobs Act. It provides $700-800 millions in net benefits to the state’s residents and includes measures to ensure that everyone has clean energy access. Customers will reap the benefits from the act’s carve-outs that are available to communities that aren’t served and the increased requirements for energy efficiency. The law could also provide incentives to renewable energy producers such as cash incentives for solar arrays.
The state’s training programs for clean energy jobs were not adequately funded or implemented. The state legislature now has two houses, but the new generation of climate-conscious legislators has been elected. They are determined to pass clean energy bills, and are working with green businesses and organizations to achieve this goal.
Since 1997, Illinois Commerce Commission approved state energy deregulation. Today, consumers are able to select local utility companies or purchase power from a variety of retail providers. Customers and providers will benefit from the Illinois unregulated electric and gas markets.
