Future depends on balance in electricity grid

Will County — and the broader state of Illinois — is rapidly becoming a hub for new data center investment, but the same technologies that power our digital economy also require electricity. Ensuring that our power resources can keep pace is critical to sustaining growth.

As Illinois stands at the threshold of an unprecedented wave of energy demand, the reliability of our electric grid, the resilience of our communities and the economic future of our state all depend on bold, informed action to expand energy infrastructure and generation.

All forms of energy have a role to play and having a diverse energy matrix allows for flexibility and affordability. Maintaining that balance between renewable and conventional resources is essential to keeping the lights on and energy costs low and stable. An increased participation of renewable energy, such as solar, can be advantageous due to its modularity, low cost and quick deployment times compared to conventional energy sources, which can shave off years of development time. Renewable energy projects can also be distributed across the state, creating jobs, bolstering local tax bases and generating sources of income in smaller communities and rural areas.

Grid expansion planning and construction is a complex, time-consuming process involving multiple entities. Support for new power generation projects, especially those that can bring clean and affordable energy quickly, is essential to ensure that our grid can keep up with growing demand, shielding Illinois’ energy future against price shocks and grid instability.

Embracing solar energy and other complementary power generation in Will County is not just about meeting demand; it’s about preparing Illinois for the next generation of growth. Let’s act now to ensure our state’s energy system remains strong, affordable and sustainable for decades to come.

Sebastiano Giardinella

Illinois Sustainable Technology Center