Illinois Adopts Unique Tool to Measure Smart-Grid Environmental Benefits

(CHICAGO – September 27, 2017) The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) today agreed to adopt a greenhouse-gas (GHG) metric that will require Ameren, the electric utility for central and Southern Illinois, to measure and report on emissions reductions associated with its advanced metering infrastructure. The metric was initially proposed by Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) and the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) and developed in concert with ComEd, the electric utility for Northern Illinois, which began using the measurement tool in 2016.

“We have long said that investment in advanced energy tools like smart meters should be used to clean the air, and this metric provides a precise way to calculate just how much pollution is being kept from our skies. Ameren can now track the environmental benefits of its smart-grid investments, including how the utility is meeting Illinois’ ambitious grid modernization goals. We look forward to working with Ameren to ensure that it maximizes the benefits of its advanced energy efforts.”

• Christie Hicks, Manager, Clean Energy Regulatory Implementation

“CUB is pleased with today’s ICC ruling. As Illinois continues historic upgrades to the power grid, it is vital that we have the metrics to measure how effective the smart grid is at making our electricity system more efficient, more affordable and cleaner. This is a step forward in measuring the environmental benefits of the smart grid. We are committed to working with all parties—Ameren, the ICC, and other consumer advocates—toward the goal of building a better power grid to benefit consumers.” 

• David Kolata, Executive Director, Citizens Utility Board