On October 17, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved a key update to the Illinois Power Agency's Long-Term Renewable Resource Procurement Plan (LTRRPP) for 2024-2026, aimed at expanding solar capacity and protecting Illinois consumers from rising energy costs.

The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) ruling authorizes an immediate doubling of the Adjustable Block Program (ADB)—expanding the community, commercial, and small-scale solar categories—while advancing new utility-scale competitive procurements before the gradual phase-out of the Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC). This decision enables developers to connect hundreds of megawatts of additional affordable clean energy to the grid, while ensuring lower taxpayer costs through the efficient utilization of existing funds.

"This decision represents a major victory for the future of clean energy in Illinois," said Andrew Linhares, Senior Manager for the Midwest at SEIA. "By expanding solar generation capacity, the commission is helping ensure Illinois residents benefit from lower costs, greater reliability, and well-paying local jobs. This is the forward-thinking action we need to keep Illinois at the forefront of the national renewable energy landscape."

Illinois' approach stands out nationwide. While many states have slowed procurement due to uncertainty in federal policies, Governor Pritzker's administration and the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) swiftly acted to accelerate renewable energy investments. These efforts aim to create local jobs, stabilize electricity prices, and enhance grid reliability. The expanded generation capacity will also prioritize projects capable of starting construction before the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) expires, ensuring Illinois consumers and workers receive the greatest economic benefits.