Environmental Law & Policy Center Statement On Dynegy – Illinois Power Generating Company’s Bankruptcy Filing – Uneconomic Coal Plants in Central, Southern Illinois

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 12, 2012

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

“Dynegy’s management made a business decision to file bankruptcy for its Illinois Power Generating Company’s old, highly polluting coal plants that are economically uncompetitive in today’s power market.

“Illinois has surplus generation at a time when demand is declining due to smart energy efficiency that saves money for businesses and families. Clean wind power and cheap natural gas are now out-competing the old coal plants, and more clean solar energy development will soon emerge. ELPC hopes that, in the bankruptcy proceedings, important protections are provided to achieve the necessary environmental cleanups at the coal plant sites and to treat fairly the communities and families who will be impacted by Dynegy’s announcement.”