Ventura joins advocates for press conference on plug-in solar legislation

SPRINGFIELD –State Senator Rachel Ventura joined State Representative Daniel Didech, and clean energy advocates to launch a campaign to pass legislation she is sponsoring enabling plug-in solar in Illinois.

The Plug-In Illinois Act would unlock access to affordable solar power for millions of Illinoisans who cannot install rooftop solar – because they are renters, apartment dwellers, or can’t afford the upfront cost – by removing regulatory barriers to small scale plug-in or “balcony” solar units.

Senate Bill 3104 – also filed as House Bill 4524 in the House – would allow consumers to buy a certified solar system and plug it into a standard wall outlet. The effort would make Illinois one of the first states in the nation to enact plug-in solar following Utah, which passed plug-in solar legislation with unanimous bipartisan support last year. Lawmakers in Pennsylvania, Minnesota, New York, Vermont, and other states have introduced plug-in solar legislation as well.

“Today, we’re making clean energy more accessible and affordable while focusing on safety,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Plug-in solar is designed with strong safety protections and modern technology that meets rigorous standards, while giving people a real way to lower their electricity bills. Illinois has long been a leader in expanding access to clean energy solutions, and plug-in solar is the next step in that progress.”

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Ventura leads resolution to declare Jane Goodall Day in Illinois

SPRINGFIELD—A resolution sponsored by State Senator Rachel Ventura would declare April 3, 2026 as Jane Goodall Day in Illinois in recognition of the life and work of Jane Goodall P.h.D., and the importance of conservation, sustainability, and living in peace with the environment.

“Dr. Jane Goodall dedicated her life to fostering a more sustainable society for the benefit of generations to come,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “By honoring her on the day of her birth, we help continue the work she began in raising awareness on the importance of conservation and the path to a green future.”

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Ventura calls for release of federal funding to protect Great Lakes and Illinois waterways

JOLIET – Following a recent statement regarding the Trump Administration continuing to pause federal funding on the Brandon Road Interbasin Project, State Senator Rachel Ventura raised concerns regarding this decision, warning that delays would threaten both the health of the Great Lakes region and the economic vitality of Illinois communities.

“Invasive carp pose a very serious threat to our waterways and the communities that depend on them,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Joliet sits at the center of this effort. The Brandon Road project is a critical safeguard for Lake Michigan and the entire Great Lakes system, and delays in federal funding put years of work and collaboration at risk.”

Earlier this year, the federal government placed a review and funding pause on the project, delaying construction and leaving Illinois waiting for previously appropriated federal funds to move forward.

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Ventura legislation to allow to plug-in solar panels for Illinois residents passes committee

SPRINGFIELD — A measure sponsored by State Senator Rachel Ventura to make plug-in solar panels legal and accessible in Illinois – in turn expanding clean energy options for renters, condominium owners, and residents who currently face barriers to installing traditional rooftop solar – passed the Senate Energy and Public Utilities Committee Thursday.

The legislation would allow the use of small, plug-in solar energy systems, often referred to as “balcony solar” or “plug-in solar panels” that connect directly to a standard electrical outlet and provide immediate, low-cost renewable energy for homes and apartments. The bill establishes clear safety standards while preventing unreasonable restrictions that block residents from using these panels.

“With energy prices on the rise, more people are looking to green alternatives to cut costs,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Plug-in solar panels are a simple, affordable solution that empowers people, especially renters and condo owners, to participate in the clean energy transition.”

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