The report "Building Electrification Helps Illinois Achieve Climate Goals" by Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) and Elevate Energy finds that electrifying single-family homes in Illinois can significantly reduce carbon emissions. The analysis updates the findings of a 2018 report and takes into account changes in the Illinois energy landscape and an improved methodology. The report highlights that the state needs to phase out fossil fuels from buildings to meet its commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement. The Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) has already set a target for Illinois' investor-owned electric utilities to achieve 25% renewable energy by 2030, and the electrification of buildings is seen as a key part of achieving this goal. Despite the uncertainty created by the COVID-19 pandemic, the report suggests that it may increase the speed of coal plant retirement. Overall, the report emphasizes the importance of building electrification in Illinois in achieving its climate goals.
