Illinois Valley Times

Renewables cannot replace nuclear energy according to state Sen. Sue Rezin (R-Morris).

She is hoping for a comprehensive energy bill that would be beneficial for the state, particularly for her constituents.

“If you look at my district from one end to the other, I represent the highest energy-producing district in the country,” Rezin said. “I also represent half of the nuclear fleet in the state of Illinois with three plants; three of the six plants are in my backyard… if we do not pass something soon the consequences will be devastating to the entire state of Illinois. Devastating for my district because we will lose literally thousands of jobs. Devastating for the State of Illinois because we will allow carbon-free power to go offline.”

She emphasized the Senate Republican caucus’ aim is to create a responsible energy bill.

“One that's responsible to the environment, responsible to the economy, and responsible to the people,” Rezin said. “Over the last several days, energy negotiations have had many highs and they've had, as you know, many lows. Currently, negotiations are still ongoing but I am cautiously optimistic that a deal can be made which would ensure that our nuclear power plants can stay online."

Rezin said Illinois’ nuclear fleet produces 50 percent of the state's total electricity and about 90 percent of the state's carbon-free energy.

“If we allow these plants to close there's no realistic way to meet the governor's ambitious carbon-free goals by 2050,” Rezin continued. “The reality is that renewables do not have the capacity to replace nuclear energy and will not have that capacity for over three decades. Without nuclear, any hopes of a carbon-free future is greatly dampened. This is one reason why it's crucial to make a deal as we've been working on comprehensive energy policy, we've come to a verbal agreement on the energy package, it’s being written and I'm hoping that we can come back in two weeks and be able to land this plane and pass a comprehensive energy policy that will put us on the path to reducing our carbon footprint.”

The Illinois Senate’s spring session has adjourned.

Rezin admits there are still more things to work on to craft a comprehensive energy bill and keep thousands of Illinoisans employed. 

She looks forward to rolling up her sleeves as soon as the Senate reconvenes.