Three Illinois State Senators are raising concerns about the state’s energy challenges and underscoring the pivotal role of nuclear power in meeting demand. Senators Sue Rezin, Sally Turner, and Terri Bryant have put forward Senate Bills 1527 and 94 to ramp up nuclear development and manage energy demands from data centers. Rezin emphasizes nuclear power as essential for reducing costs and boosting job opportunities. Turner highlights the strategic role of the Clinton nuclear plant in her district. Bryant warns of the repercussions if Illinois does not invest in nuclear energy, urging legislative action to secure reliable and affordable power.
“Illinois has long been a leader in nuclear power, but we are at a critical point on the path of our state’s energy future,” said Senator Sue Rezin. “With skyrocketing energy demand and our grids already under pressure, we must act now to expand our energy capacity. More nuclear power means lower long-term energy costs for families and businesses, a more reliable grid, and thousands of good-paying jobs. Our state cannot afford to do nothing and allow ourselves to fall behind.”
“My district is home to the Clinton nuclear plant, a vital part of our local economy and a key source of reliable energy for our state,” said Senator Sally Turner. “Illinois has been slow to embrace new nuclear development, and we need to change that. If we want to remain competitive, we must invest in the next generation of nuclear power. Additionally, as someone who has filed their own legislation concerning foreign adversaries buying up farmland, I believe Senator Rezin’s data center bill is a necessity. We need to prioritize our own state’s citizens’ energy needs.”
“Manufacturing is the largest contributor to Illinois’ GDP, supporting nearly a third of all jobs in our state,” said Senator Terri Bryant. “These businesses need reliable baseload energy, and nuclear is one of, if not the best, source we have to provide that stability. Experts are warning that Illinois is on a path to significant energy shortfalls in the coming years. Without new investments in baseload generation like nuclear, we risk higher energy costs, potential blackouts, and lost economic opportunities.”
