Governor Pritzker Signs Landmark Energy Storage Bill To Lower Energy Costs, Boost Grid Reliability, And Support Illinois’ Clean-Energy Transition

The American Clean Power Association (ACP) has welcomed Governor Pritzker’s signing of the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA), a bipartisan law designed to reduce energy costs, enhance grid reliability, and support Illinois’ transition to American-made clean energy. As electricity demand rises across the country and system costs continue to increase, CRGA stands out as one of the most significant state-level policies focused on modern grid infrastructure and energy storage. The law creates a strong long-term framework for Illinois and offers a model for other states seeking proven strategies to improve reliability and limit price volatility for consumers.

Sarah Cottrell Propst, Senior Vice President of State Affairs at ACP, said the new law brings forward “smart, timely solutions.” She noted that by investing in energy storage and virtual power plants, Illinois is taking steps to keep energy affordable, boost grid reliability, and create new clean-energy and manufacturing jobs—moves that benefit both consumers and the broader state economy.

A key element of CRGA is the creation of Illinois’ first energy storage procurement program, which aims to secure 3,000 MW of storage capacity by 2030. The law also harmonizes siting and permitting rules for storage assets with the state’s existing standards for wind and solar projects. In addition, CRGA launches a statewide Virtual Power Plant (VPP) initiative. This initiative combines distributed energy resources—such as home solar panels and battery systems—to provide stored electricity back to the grid during periods of high demand. These measures are expected to generate nearly USD 13.4 billion in energy-bill savings over 20 years, reduce peak-hour costs without the need for new power plants, and ensure storage projects meet consistent safety-based standards.

Illinois is already among the top ten states in installed clean-energy capacity, and the passage of CRGA strengthens its position. By expanding energy storage, supporting manufacturing supply chains, and improving system reliability, the law aims to meet the needs of the state’s growing economy while delivering lasting benefits. Families are expected to see immediate savings on monthly utility bills and more predictable prices over time, while small businesses will benefit from greater cost stability and a more resilient grid that helps protect operations from outages. ACP praised Illinois lawmakers for advancing a policy framework that delivers reliable, affordable, and clean energy to communities across the state, reinforcing Illinois’ role as a national leader in the clean-energy transition.