Frerichs sponsored legislation could create thousands of jobs in Illinois, boost economy

SPRINGFIELD, IL - Recently passed legislation which boasts an incentive package to increase Illinois' prospect of obtaining the $1.4 billion federal FutureGen coal project has been signed by the Governor. State Senator Michael Frerichs (D-Gifford), a sponsor of Senate Bill 1704, says the legislation will help establish a partnership of government and leading companies in the coal industry and provide an estimated $67 - $80 million to design, build, and operate a nearly emission free, coal fired electric and hydrogen production plant if the project is awarded to Illinois.

The plant, which will be in either Tuscola or Mattoon, Illinois or in Texas, will serve as a large scale engineering laboratory for the testing of new, clean power and coal to hydrogen technologies. "The FutureGen project would revive Illinois' coal industry by utilizing technology making the use of coal more environmentally friendly," said Senator Frerichs. "This project would have a sizeable impact on the State's economy."

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) estimates that around 1,300 construction jobs and 150 permanent jobs would be created by the FutureGen plant opening in Illinois. According to another study completed by Southern Illinois University, there would be a projected $1 billion impact statewide, 1,225 indirect spin-off jobs created during the four-year construction period, and an additional 360 full-time jobs. Once operational, estimates are that FutureGen would annually generate $135 million statewide.

FutureGen's coal technology would allow the production of energy without dangerous sulfur and carbon dioxide emissions. The state has been studying the issue of storing CO2 underground through the State Geological Survey over the past four years, demonstrating how Illinois lands are well-suited for such action. The project would help ensure the long-term viability of Illinois Basin coal and would represent a significant step in the State's efforts to become a self-sufficient, clean energy producer.

Frerichs stated, "This legislation and our efforts to bring the FutureGen Plant to Illinois is an investment in the future of our State. This will create jobs, stimulate the economy, and put Illinois at the forefront of yet another alternative fuel source."

An announcement on the selection of the FutureGen site is expected in the fall.