[The following is a paid advertisement.]

SB 1652 provides an array of benefits to Illinois. It is about jobs, economic development, environmental protections, consumer benefits, regulatory reform, and a modern infrastructure. It is supported by an extraordinary cross-section of business groups, labor unions, environmental organizations and more.

The legislation has undergone more than 40 major revisions based on input from various parties.

Without SB 1652 there is:

• No consumer opportunity for enhanced energy efficiency and rebate programs, or significant savings from operational efficiencies that are passed on to customers.
• No additional union job creation or new business growth in Illinois to service smart grid and renewable projects.
• No major increase in grid reliability or established performance standards to hold utilities accountable.
• No easy path to facilitate more renewable energy such as solar into the grid.
• No opportunity for Illinois to realize a vision of an electric highway for future widespread electric vehicle use without smart meters.

SB 1652 does not guarantee profits or automatic rates increases and does not strip the ICC’s authority.
Illinois customers want more than the status quo. We look forward to working with members of the General Assembly to help make grid modernization and economic growth a reality.