St. Charles residents invited to discuss city’s energy future

The Prairie Rivers Network and Sierra Club Illinois, along with the League of Women Voters of Central Kane County, are hosting “Bright Future St. Charles: Transition to a Clean Energy Future” on Wednesday, Jan. 22.

As Illinois moves toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future, communities like St. Charles face a pivotal decision that could impact their environmental and financial landscape for decades.

Currently, St. Charles, along with other municipalities, is bound by a long-term contract with Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMEA) that provides 80% of our power from two coal plants.

The Prairie State coal plant in Illinois is one of the nation's largest coal polluters and is the No. 1 carbon dioxide polluters in Illinois. This facility not only contributes millions of tons of carbon dioxide annually but also produces dangerous coal ash that threatens water supplies and public health.

The program will be 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Huntley Community Room at the St. Charles Public Library, 1 S. Sixth Ave. The League of Women Voters of Central Kane County is a co-sponsor for this event.

This educational event will explore the pressing decision facing St. Charles: extending its contract with IMEA for 20 more years, potentially locking the city into coal-powered electricity until 2055.

Attendees will learn about the environmental and health risks associated with Prairie State, the growing availability of cleaner, more affordable energy alternatives, and the role of technology in shaping a sustainable future.

Learn how St. Charles can lead the way in making forward-thinking decisions that not only protect the environment but also strengthen the local economy.

By making informed, thoughtful choices today, we can create a future where clean energy powers our homes, supports our health, and ensures a thriving community for generations to come.

Key questions to address:

• Is there a business case for St. Charles to sign a new 20-year contract now, 10 years prior to the effective date?

• How can St. Charles avoid locking into a contract that may not be in the community's best interest long-term?

• What are the environmental and health impacts of continuing to rely on the Prairie State Coal Plant?

• What cleaner, cheaper energy options are available as technology advances?

Join this important discussion and learn how St. Charles can lead the way toward a cleaner, healthier energy future for all. This is a chance to ensure the city's energy decisions align with the rapidly evolving energy landscape.

Let them know if you are attending via secure.everyaction.com/tB7TewOgj0a4XcPIG_UfFA2.