ELPC Statement on Dynegy Coal Plant Closures

For Immediate Release
May 3, 2016
Contact:
David Jakubiak

Environmental Law & Policy Center Statement On
Dynegy Coal Retirements in Central, Southern Illinois

STATEMENT BY HOWARD A. LEARNER
Executive Director, Environmental Law & Policy Center

“Dynegy’s management made a business decision to shut down old coal plants that are not economically competitive in the power market. Dynegy appears to now be asking Illinois legislators to force consumers to pay higher utility bills to subsidize Dynegy’s old, uncompetitive power plants. That’s just not fair. Illinois legislators should advance policies to support investment in the new clean energy technologies that keep electricity costs affordable while creating new jobs and spurring economic growth.

“Illinois has a surplus of old nuclear and coal plant supply while demand is declining due to smart energy efficiency that saves money for businesses at home. Natural gas and new wind power are outcompeting the old coal and nuclear plants, and they are saving consumers’ money. Illinois policymakers should not force consumers to pay higher utility rates to subsidize old plants they’ve already paid for.”