Illinois Commerce Commission evaluates electric vehicle potential

Published on September 26, 2018 by Chris Galford


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The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) began a notice of inquiry this week, opening their doors to information and opinions from stakeholders of electric vehicles (EVs) regarding their place in grid resilience and energy efficiency.

While the inquiry is not a rulemaking effort and will not itself lead to any decisions by the Commission, it can inform future decisions. It follows two policy sessions already held on the electrification of transportation in Illinois. The overall goal of the inquiry would be to educate the ICC on opportunities and challenges related to the emerging technology.

Several states have launched themselves into the electrification effort, but EV adoption in Illinois remains in its infant stage, with few regulations covering it. The ICC wishes to consider issues, such as ownership of charging infrastructure, an appropriate rate structure, and how to encourage EV charging practices that support grid stability.

An ICC release stated widespread EV adoption throughout Illinois could provide up to $43 billion in benefits by 2050 through the reduction of utility bills, carbon pollution, and fuel and vehicle expenses.

The inquiry will last until Oct. 23, 2018.