Tracy sponsors bills to address concerns, complaints about construction of solar/wind energy projects

SPRINGFIELD – State Sen. Jil Tracy (R-Quincy) says concerns by city officials and complaints by consumers emphasize the need to restore local control in solar and wind energy construction, as well as protect consumers from a few bad actors in the business.

“Renewable energy projects are an important part of a comprehensive energy plan; however, it’s not wise to rely on an ‘all-or-nothing’ scenario,” Tracy said in a press release. “Plans that focus solely on solar or wind power should not be rushed. They must be thoroughly vetted to ensure our region has systems that will provide affordable and sufficient energy but do not encroach on residential areas.”

Tracy is cosponsoring legislation that returns siting powers to local officials.

Senate Bill 1457 would stop the construction of wind farms and solar farms within a three-mile radius of cities to stop the encroachment of wind and solar projects on cities and subdivisions. Additionally, Senate Bill 160 would return local control and siting powers to townships for solar and wind projects. The legislation seeks to prevent encroachment on new subdivisions and nursing homes in unincorporated areas. 

“In recent years, a couple of laws wrested local siting control to fast-track solar fields in rural counties. I believe in local control, not a state siting standard that all but eliminates any local control,” Tracy said. “This legislation makes it clear that wind and solar energy companies must get approval to locate within municipal limits.”

The 50th District senator also is sponsoring Senate Bill 23, requiring the Illinois Auditor General to conduct performance audits of solar energy companies to prevent performance that falls short of claims or bankruptcies that leave consumers on the hook.

“My office has heard from several constituents who say solar energy companies are misleading the public, or ask what they can do when a company goes out of business,” Tracy said. “The most common complaint is that the utility bill savings are not what was promised, or the contractor failed to install or repair the panels due to bankruptcy.”

Senate Bill 23 provides that in calendar years 2025, 2030, 2035, 2040, and 2045, the Auditor General will conduct a performance audit of the programs and procurement activities administered by the Illinois Power Agency to implement the Renewable Portfolio Standard, and the Adjustable Block Program established under the Illinois Power Agency Act.

The legislation states that the performance audits should address several questions related to renewable energy, solar vendors, and other issues. Performance audits are to include physical inspections of three random solar sites funded through the Adjustable Block program. The Auditor General will consult with energy experts in the audit process and may employ an energy consulting firm.