Illinois General Assembly Passes CRGA for Energy Storage and Nuclear Regulations
The Illinois General Assembly passed the CRGA, which mandates the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) to develop a Storage Procurement Plan by 2027, with an initial procurement of over 1 GW of energy storage by August 26, 2026. It removes the nuclear plant construction ban for plants over 300 MW and requires collaboration among several agencies to create an Integrated Resource Plan evaluating future electricity needs.
The CRGA also initiates a study for an Illinois-specific Independent System Operator, establishes a Geothermal Homes and Businesses Program for renewable energy credits through 2035, and introduces a Thermal Energy Network Program. It expands Project Labor Agreements for various renewable projects and modifies energy efficiency programs for utilities. Additionally, it mandates virtual power plant tariffs by June 1, 2026, and requires time-of-use pricing from large electric utilities.
