Environmental Progress - Fall 2001

Renewable Energy Policy Released For Public Input

Public input sought before policy fully implemented

Illinois' energy policy status got a big boost in early November when Gov. George H. Ryan announced a draft energy policy is now available for public comment. The draft is online at www.state.il.us/gov/energy and interested citizens were encouraged to submit comments by e-mail before Dec. 8, 2001. The energy policy examines electricity, natural gas, liquid fuels and renewable energy.

"Illinois has already been recognized as a leader in energy policy," Gov. Ryan said. He cited initiatives like the $225 million Clean Energy Foundation, the state's $65 million contribution in state funds to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, the largest such contribution in the nation, and the creation of the largest coal program in any state as examples of the state's energy leadership. "When our new energy policy is fully implemented after the public review," the governor added, "Illinois will be the national leader in formulating a statewide, comprehensive, environmentally responsible energy policy."

"Fully utilizing clean, renewable sources of energy is important for our environment and our economy, "Gov. Ryan said. "Investing in renewable energy, and making wise energy choices, will ensure that Illinois consumers have an adequate, safe and affordable energy supply in the future." To highlight the state's support of renewable energy research, the governor announced that $1.3 million in grants will be awarded to the Chicago Historical Society, the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Lakefront SRO Holland Apartments and the city of Chicago Emergency Communications Office for the purchase and installation of solar photovoltaic systems to generate electricity from sunlight. The grants will be made by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Community Affairs (DCCA).

In addition, DCCA will provide $550,000 to Caterpillar Inc. to help support a $2.5 million project to develop and test an ethanol-powered fuel cell that will provide electrical power for the Williams Bio-Energy visitors' center in Pekin.