Northern Illinois to Become Net Importer of Electricity by 2030 Amid Rising Power Demand

Northern Illinois is set to transition from a net exporter to a net importer of electricity by 2030 due to a projected 24% increase in power demand in the area served by Commonwealth Edison between 2025 and 2030. The Illinois Power Agency, Illinois Commerce Commission, and Illinois Environmental Protection Agency report that power prices are expected to nearly double from $2.1 billion annually to $3.9 billion by 2030.

A new bill will allow the government to ease pollution reduction mandates to address impending power shortages. The report suggests the construction of natural gas plants to meet energy needs until renewable sources are developed, likely delaying the closure of existing polluting gas plants. Governor Pritzker's administration stated it will address findings from the resource adequacy study and sign recent energy legislation.