IL Legislators Fail to Improve Grid Reliability, Energy Affordability, and Solar Access
The Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act Would Have Reaffirmed Illinois as a Climate Leader
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 12, 2025
Springfield, IL– Illinois legislators failed to pass the Clean & Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA Act/SB 40), a critical piece of legislation that would have advanced Illinois’ commitment to a clean, reliable, and affordable energy future. Despite support from communities and advocacy organizations, including Vote Solar and other members of the Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition (ICJC), legislators missed a pivotal opportunity to strengthen the state’s energy grid and accelerate progress toward its climate goals.
Illinois is expecting energy prices to surge, and without action from legislators, this will lead to higher energy bills for communities. The expected rise in data centers would disrupt existing markets, leading to higher electricity bills and setbacks to clean energy goals. Additionally, recent spikes in capacity prices by regional grid operators will soon translate into higher utility bills for working families across the state. To meet Illinois’ clean energy goals and protect communities from rising energy costs, legislators must act to strengthen the state’s shrinking Renewable Portfolio Standard. Programs like Illinois Solar for All and Illinois Shines are essential tools for expanding access to solar, lowering energy bills, and creating local jobs. Advocates warn that unless legislative action is taken, the state will likely see rising energy costs, reduced local economic activity, and stunted job growth in the clean energy sector.
“As energy costs soar, communities are looking for leadership and action,” said Kavi Chintam, Campaign Manager for Illinois at Vote Solar. “Legislators should be championing clean, reliable, and affordable energy. By failing to act, legislators are choosing inaction over progress––leaving communities to bear the burden.”
Advocates are now looking to upcoming sessions as the next opportunity to pass the CRGA Act. Without immediate action, Illinois risks undermining its climate commitments set in the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act of 2021 and increasing electricity bills across the state.
“State-level action is more important than ever and by advancing grid modernization and equitable clean energy solutions like solar, Illinois can protect families from rising costs, strengthen grid reliability, and help boost the local economy,” said Chintam. “While utilities profit, communities face rising costs and climate impacts. The time for bold leadership is now––passing the CRGA Act in the fall is critical to meeting climate goals, protecting vulnerable communities, and building a more resilient and affordable energy system for all.”
About Vote Solar
Vote Solar is a nonprofit advocacy organization working to advance state-level policies that make solar and clean energy solutions accessible to all. Since 2002, Vote Solar has worked to build a just and equitable energy future by leveraging deep policy expertise, strategic partnerships, and public engagement. In the face of powerful opposition, Vote Solar champions bold solutions that expand clean energy access, drive investment in frontline communities, and accelerate the transition to 100% clean energy.