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Proposed clean energy reward could strain local governemnts

Peoria Public Radio

A plan to financially reward Exelon for producing carbon-free nuclear energy would cost 1.6 billion dollars over five years, according to a study by Kestler Energy Consulting. 

The analysis was funded by the BEST coalition, a group of businesses and other entities opposed to Exelon's plan. Dave Lundy, who's with BEST, says the proposal would strain businesses' and municipal governments' budgets.  

"Our governments around this state are strapped thin. We don't have more money to throw, and certainly not more money to throw at a very profitable corporation." 

Lundy says Exelon is looking for bailout. An Exelon spokesman says without the subsidy it might have to close three nuclear plants. 

He points to a state study published in January, that shows closing those plants would cost the state 1.8 billion dollars annually in economic activity.