South Cook News

State Sen. Patrick Joyce (D-Essex) is calling on state lawmakers to act now in protecting the livelihood of Illinois residents and preserving the state’s clean energy future.

 "Closing our nuclear plants is something our communities cannot afford or survive — the cost of doing nothing at this crucial time is simply too great,” Joyce said in a press release posted on his website. “With so much at stake, it’s vital that we act now to protect workers who will lose their livelihoods if we don’t take action soon." 

Joyce’s warning comes after Exelon recently announced it planned to close two local nuclear plants at least partly due to a decline in revenue and energy costs.  

Efforts to craft legislation that would address the issue and keep at least one of the plants open are said to be ongoing. 

For Joyce, who serves the district that includes Dresden Generating Station in Grundy County, the vote is a no brainer, with the veteran lawmaker arguing that the impact of such a closure would also affect area teachers and first responders, both of whose salaries are at least partly paid with property taxes dependent on the local energy sector.

“I am committed to fighting for a responsible energy plan for the people of our state, and I will continue to do all that I can to protect the jobs of working people and the environment at the same time,” he added.

Joyce noted negotiations continue between parties that include labor representatives, environmental advocates and other industry and community stakeholders, adding the goal includes crafting a way forward that “protects jobs and prioritizes renewable, reliable and affordable energy production across the state.”