- Published: Monday, September 13, 2021 02:47 PM
SPRINGFIELD – State Senator Robert Peters (D-Chicago) praised the energy plan that passed the General Assembly Monday, saying it will help fight climate change and transition Illinois to a renewable energy economy that includes minority workers.
“I represent a district that borders Chicago’s lakefront, and we’re seeing the results of climate change now,” Peters said. “Changing water levels are causing increased erosion and endangering parks, businesses, and homes on Lake Michigan. But, those are just short-term effects – in the long term, we’re talking about making sure humans can still live on the planet.”
The legislation would establish a goal of 100% clean energy by 2050. It also would more than double the state’s budget for renewable energy and set a goal of 50% renewable energy by 2040. It would further set firm deadlines for fossil fuel-burning power plants to either close or repurpose to produce clean energy, and it would allow two new renewable energy transmission lines to be built.
Read more: Peters praises energy plan that fights climate change