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Exelon Threatens Plant Closures

Exelon is amping up its threat to close three nuclear power plants, unless there's help from the legislature.

The company says it's not a bailout and instead argues its trying to level the playing field. Illinois already gives some incentives for renewable sources, like energy and wind.

Supporters of Exelon's measure, like Democratic Rep. Larry Walsh, Jr. of Joliet, say nuclear power deserves that push.

"Nuclear energy plants provide Illinois with a reliable, carbon-free solution for their energy needs," Walsh said. "And we need to do all we can to preserve these plants."

Exelon says its plan would only increase customers' electric bills by only a few dollars and in return protect jobs that are important to the state's economy.

Exelon employees say they want to make sure the plants don't close so they can keep their jobs.

  Busloads of nuclear plant workers came to the Capitol Wednesday asking lawmakers to pass the measure.

There are other, competing plans before the General Assembly. Critics say Exelon is basically trying to make higher profits.

Amanda Vinicky moved to Chicago Tonight on WTTW-TV PBS in 2017.
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