Reports: Illinois could help boost struggling nuclear plants

New reports from several Illinois agencies propose ways lawmakers could help keep the state's nuclear plants open.
The reports issued Wednesday suggest the state could favor Chicago-based Exelon Corp. because its six nuclear plants generate electricity without emitting greenhouse gases. 
The Chicago Tribune reports such a policy would punish providers, such as coal-burning power plants, that emit carbon dioxide.
Exelon has been lobbying for such policies, saying it otherwise might have to close at least three of its financially struggling Illinois plants.
Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan directed the state Commerce Commission and several other agencies to suggest ways to prevent the plant closures.
Almost half of Illinois electricity comes from nuclear plants and the rest from coal, natural gas and renewable energy such as solar and wind.