Learning Solar Skills
Sadzi Martha Oliva is a Commissioner at the Illinois Commerce Commission.
As most utility regulators do, I approve rates, enforce laws, and ensure that consumers are protected; however, a distinguishable responsibility of which I am also proud is maintaining and championing Illinois as a leader in energy policy across the nation.
In the course of supporting the State's grid modernization, I have come to understand and witness the impact that good policy has had not only on our power system but also in the lives of Illinois citizens, particularly disadvantaged communities.
Here, I share an encouraging story of good energy policy at work and how it can change a person's life. Moreover, this is a story about the future of the energy workforce and one of its rising stars, Cynthia Myers.
The Future Energy Jobs Act
While laws are enacted with the best of intentions, some do not play out as intended; thankfully, however, Illinois' Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) does not fall into that category of statutes.
The comprehensive, forward-thinking law leverages the State's former grid investments and bolsters the State's path toward achieving its clean energy goals. In addition to improving Renewable Portfolio Standards and calling for the development of over forty-three hundred megawatts of new wind and solar in Illinois, the law mandates equal access to renewable energy resources and the economic prosperity that is derived from its deployment.