The nuclear, coal and renewable-energy industries find themselves vying for the attention of Illinois lawmakers this legislative session.
Lawmakers are trying to work on the state budget impasse, but energy providers hope they will focus on legislation to deal with Illinois' long-term power needs before the scheduled May 31 adjournment.
The Springfield bureau of Lee Enterprises newspapers reports that all three industries back measures that they say are vital to the state's energy future and economy.
Exelon Generation supports a measure that would extend state subsidies to nuclear power plants that are struggling financially. The bill includes $140 million in funding for the solar power industry.
A group of central and southern Illinois lawmakers is pushing for legislation that seeks to preserve coal as part of the state's energy mix.
