NW Illinois News

Nuclear power continues to play a central role in Illinois' energy landscape, according to State Senator Li Arellano Jr. (R-Dixon). Arellano argues that nuclear energy is vital for maintaining reliable electricity supply across the state, especially as other sources face increasing limitations.

"Nuclear energy keeps reliable electricity in our homes, and is not reliant on weather," Arellano stated. He emphasized that nuclear currently serves as the "backbone" of the state's electrical grid by providing stable, round-the-clock baseload power essential for industries and hospitals. The senator also noted that nuclear power produces no carbon emissions, a point he believes is significant in ongoing policy discussions.

Despite these benefits, Illinois has faced restrictions on expanding its nuclear capacity. A moratorium enacted by the Illinois General Assembly in 1987 banned construction of new reactors. While recent changes have allowed small modular reactors (SMRs), Arellano contends this is insufficient to meet future needs.

He expressed concern over the feasibility of reaching net zero emissions targets set for 2050, particularly with plans to phase out gas and coal plants by 2045: "With the governor’s radical push for net zero by 2050, the idea that Illinois can shut down gas and coal plants by 2045 and still keep a stable grid is completely unworkable. Nuclear simply has to be part of the solution!"

Arellano acknowledged what he sees as a shift in Governor J.B. Pritzker's stance toward large-scale nuclear projects after previously citing cost concerns: "There are signs that the governor is finally moving away from his previous dismissal of large-scale reactors...he has suddenly warmed up to nuclear—which I welcome."

However, legislative progress remains stalled after an omnibus energy bill failed during spring session. Arellano cautioned against tying any lifting of the moratorium on new nuclear construction to broader packages containing measures he describes as costly or burdensome for consumers.

"We should pass this bill as soon as possible, but it needs to be independent of the expensive additional initiatives pushed by special interest groups," he said. Among these initiatives, Arellano listed proposals such as removing local governments' authority over siting large battery storage units near homes; raising consumer costs through new fees and subsidies; mandating union staffing requirements; and adding what he called “Trojan horse ‘green’ programs” involving efficiency mandates and virtual power plant rebates.

"The bottom line: Yes, lift the nuclear moratorium. But don’t bury it inside an omnibus packed with costly, heavy-handed new mandates," Arellano concluded.

Arellano was elected in 2025 as a Republican representing Illinois’ 37th Senate District, succeeding Win Stoller.

https://ballotpedia.org/Li_Arellano_Jr.