Illinois lawmakers pass scaled-back bill to support renewable energy development

Illinois lawmakers passed a bill to support renewable energy development, but it is a scaled-back version of earlier proposals. The bill aims to address a potential $3 billion budget shortfall in the state's renewable energy funding. The legislation allows state regulators to manage the budget for renewable energy projects and shifts some financial risks to utility customers. It also initiates a study on energy storage technology, which may lead to future legislation. Key provisions for battery storage and energy efficiency programs were removed from the final bill. Advocates expressed disappointment but are looking forward to more comprehensive climate legislation in the spring.