Illinois’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, recently signed into law by the governor, includes provisions for a statewide efficiency stretch code and measures to accelerate building electrification.
The law also aims for a 100% zero-emissions power sector in the state by 2045 and extends energy efficiency programs including additional investments to help low-income households make their homes more efficient. In the transportation sector, the law provides rebates for electric vehicles and electric vehicle charging infrastructure.
In order to reset incentives for utilities, the law replaces formula rates that allow utilities to spend money and profits with little oversight with a system that prompts them to achieve equity and clean energy goals. The law establishes Illinois as a national leader on climate, equity, and support for communities and workers as they transition away from fossil fuels, according to an article posted by the Natural Resources Defense Council.
The law also seeks to expand economic opportunities for disadvantaged communities and people of color in the clean energy sector. It includes a provision to incubate and grow small clean energy businesses in disadvantaged communities.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2015
U.S. House scuttles EPA plan to expand definition of waters in Clean Water Act
Construction industry officials said the rule would hamper developers, cost jobs.
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2015
First EPD covering PVC water and wastewater piping published
Benchmarks impacts of seven PVC pipe products across their life cycles.
Office Buildings | May 18, 2015
New ASHRAE standard offers test method to determine heat gain of office equipment
The standard will aid engineers in configuring cooling systems in office buildings.
Codes and Standards | May 7, 2015
Widespread damage from Nepal earthquake due to poor implementation of building code
Nepal’s code author says destruction was ‘inevitable.’
Codes and Standards | May 7, 2015
Lavish residential skyscrapers prompt concern over shadows
New York, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., and Boston among cities grappling with height regulations.
Codes and Standards | May 7, 2015
Several states moving to repeal prevailing wage laws
Anti-prevailing wage bills that apply to state-funded construction projects have been passed in West Virginia and Nevada. Similar laws could be passed in Indiana and Illinois.
Codes and Standards | May 7, 2015
New OSHA rule aimed at protecting construction workers in confined spaces
The agency says the rule will protect about 800 workers a year from serious injury.
Codes and Standards | May 1, 2015
Colorado House kills construction defects bill
The legislation would have made it harder for condo owners to sue builders.
Codes and Standards | May 1, 2015
New energy efficiency program, Tenant Star, gets OK from Congress
The voluntary program for commercial and government buildings is modeled after Energy Star.
Smart Buildings | May 1, 2015
FEMA to require states to evaluate risks posed by climate change
The aim is for states to do a better job planning for natural disasters they are likely to face in a warming world.
