Carbondale Reporter

State Representative Dave Severin has criticized the energy policies supported by Illinois Democrats, claiming they have reduced energy generation capacity and caused an increase in summer electricity rates. Severin is advocating for answers regarding these policies, which he believes have negatively impacted grid reliability and increased costs for consumers statewide.

The Citizens Utility Board of Illinois released a statement confirming that Ameren customers will see their electricity bills rise by approximately $37.62 to $45.98 per month from June through September.

In early May, during a news conference at the Capitol, Rep. Severin and his Republican colleagues highlighted a letter sent to the chair and vice chair of the House’s Energy & Environment Committee. The letter requested joint public hearings with the Senate’s Energy & Public Utilities Committee to address these issues.

“The citizens that I represent are about to experience shockingly higher electricity bills, and a straight line can be drawn from failed Democratic Green New Scam policies to the higher rates,” said Severin. He emphasized the need for public hearings to evaluate which energy policies are effective and which are failing Illinois residents.

Severin reported being informed by committee leaders that there isn't enough time left in the session, which ends on May 31, to hold hearings on this matter. Any hearings would be postponed until June—a delay Severin finds unacceptable.

“Between the insane price spikes, grid reliability issues, and now a new administration, it is time for Illinois Democrats to abandon their irresponsible and costly energy policies," stated Severin. He urged a return to coal use and criticized what he termed as "climate alarmist" policies.