As 2010 came to a close, Illinois ushered in the new year with strides in renewable energy! On Dec. 22, Governor Pat Quinn announced the implementation of long-term renewable energy agreements. These efforts confirm Illinois’s position as a "… leader in developing the green economy, and this support for renewable resources will keep us on the cutting-edge," according to Quinn.

The 20-year agreements allow select wind and power energy venders to supply Ameren and ComEd with renewable electricity. This brings Illinois one step closer to its goal of 25% of energy provided to smaller customers to be generated by renewable energy sources by 2025. Not only do these partnerships demonstrate Illinois’s leadership in the transition to renewable energy, they also put people to work and boost our economy. As 2011 begins, we hope others locally and nationally follow in these footsteps to a renewable energy economy.

Who are these select wind and power energy venders? Check out the press release to find out.

The Illinois Solar Energy Association and the Environmental Law and Policy Center consider meeting the 25% renewable energy goal a priority over the coming years. Illinois needs to extend the now expired in-state preference for renewables to ensure new jobs and projects are created in Illinois. Additionally, we should place a priority on solar energy. Before wind energy uses up the funding and hits the current 2% rate cap on all renewable expenditures, Solar Renewable Energy Certificates should be procured first to meet the Solar Renewable Portfolio Standards.To learn more other 2011 priorities, visit the ISEA and ELPC websites.