Grundy Reporter

At a recent press conference at Capitol, three Illinois State Senators underscored the pressing need to stabilize the state's power supply and enhance energy generation. State Senators Sue Rezin, Sally Turner, and Terri Bryant emphasized the challenges faced by the power grid in Illinois and advocated for the role of new nuclear developments in boosting energy supply and maintaining affordable costs for families and businesses.

The Senators highlighted Senate Bill 1527, which proposes repealing the state’s moratorium on building new nuclear reactors. According to them, lifting this moratorium could enable Illinois to explore advanced nuclear technologies that promise clean, reliable, and affordable energy. "Lifting the moratorium would allow the state to explore advanced, next-generation nuclear technology that can deliver clean, reliable, and affordable energy, helping ensure that Illinois families aren’t left paying more for less," they said.

Further, they drew attention to Senate Bill 94, designed to prevent data centers owned by foreign adversaries from straining Illinois’ power grid. The legislation mandates that such centers must provide their own energy. With rising energy demands from data centers, AI technology, quantum computing, and advanced manufacturing sectors, the Senators underlined the necessity for Illinois to adopt measures ensuring energy reliability and cost efficiency. They argued these steps would support job creation and spur economic growth within the state.

The Senators urged the General Assembly to promptly act on these legislative measures to meet Illinois’ expanding energy needs and to maintain the state's position as a leader in nuclear innovation.