In 2021, Illinois passed clean energy legislation - the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) – committing Illinois to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Key provisions include meeting existing fossil generating plant zero-emission requirements; investments in residential, community, and utility-scale renewable energy; and investments in electrification targeting one million EVs on Illinois roads by 2030. The law also contains provisions that impact the way the state's utilities, like Ameren Illinois, must invest in grid enhancements to prepare for an equitable transition to clean energy.
On December 19, 2024, the Illinois Commerce Commission approved Ameren Illinois' multi-year (2024-2027) integrated grid plan — the Company's first approved plan under the new process established by CEJA. The plan outlines planned investments centering on maintaining safe and reliable service through modernization of the electric grid, replacement of aging infrastructure, preventative maintenance, and automation, while also directing more than half of the investments to benefit customers living in equity-eligible communities.
The Plan focuses on four strategic priorities:
Sustain and strengthen grid safety and reliability through continued investment in programs, systems, and infrastructure that serve as the foundation for a more advanced, secure, and clean grid.
Better withstand grid interruptions caused by the increase in severe weather events by proactively replacing equipment, implementing advanced infrastructure hardening, and installing more intelligent, automated, flexible, and redundant systems.
Empower customers to take control of their energy decisions through expanded access to tools and usage data. Increase investments in energy efficiency programs to help customers reduce their energy usage and save money while continuing to prioritize affordability, equity, and improved customer service systems.
Make it easy for customers and developers to connect to distributed energy resources such as solar, wind, and battery storage. Promote the equitable long-term growth of renewable energy, demand response, and energy efficiency; and facilitate customer adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) through lower off-peak charging rates and credits for public charging facilities in equity-eligible communities.
Ensure the benefits of our efforts are equitably distributed in our communities
Play a significant role in achieving the clean energy transition in Illinois while prioritizing affordability.
Always take a customer first approach and meet customers' needs and evolving expectations
Provide safe, secure, and reliable energy in an equitable and cost-effective manner