Illinois leads the way with energy efficiency
Environment Illinois helps set new path for the state
In 2007, Environment Illinois fought hard to pass legislation creating new energy efficiency programs across Illinois. Under the resulting law, our electric utilities must now offer robust programs to help their customers save energy. By 2015, electric utilities must be able to meet 2 percent of their customers’ energy needs with energy efficiency, rather than by selling more electricity.
This landmark legislation—second only to California in breadth—is projected to eventually save Illinoisans more than $2 billion a year on energy costs.
New money-saving programs
This summer marked the long-awaited arrival of these programs to Illinois. Utility programs include discounts on compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), incentives for turning in old refrigerators and air conditioners and other savings opportunities for Illinois families and businesses. The Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity also offers public sector incentive programs, low income efficiency programs, technical assistance programs, and training and education programs.
The environmental benefits of the initiative are immense: By 2015, these programs will reduce CO2 emissions by over 5 million metric tons annually. That’s equivalent to taking nearly a million cars off the road.
Becoming more energy efficient makes economic sense, too. For every $1 spent on efficiency, Illinois consumers could save an average of $3 on their energy bills.
Find out how you can benefit
To promote these programs and help increase energy efficiency statewide, Environment Illinois has set up a new section on this website—the Environment Illinois Energy Efficiency Headquarters—with information on how to participate in these programs and useful tips on how to save energy in your home or office.
There’s also a section on CFLs, with valuable information on CFL cleanup and recycling, and answers to questions you may have about CFLs and mercury.
New energy efficiency measures could save Illinoisans more than $2 billion a year.
