Introduction
Even though coal plants are shutting down across the country, coal remains a major source of energy in the U.S., and burning it emits toxic pollutants and climate-altering carbon dioxide. America Ferrera journeys to Illinois, where a still-functioning coal plant is creating tension between those who want to shut it down and those — like the local mayor — who want to keep it open. She meets a group of activists fighting hard to close it in favor of an option that can provide clean energy and green jobs.
READ MORE:
The Untold Story About the End of Coal by David Crane, former CEO of NRG
STORY UPDATE:
In December of 2016, the Illinois legislature passed the Future Energy Jobs Bill, a version of the legislation Waukeganites lobbied for earlier that year. Over the next 15 years, the bill will provide incentives to attract $12-$15 billion in private sector investments in renewable energy and $6 billion in utility investments in energy efficiency. Governor Bruce Rauner signed the bill into law on December 7, giving Waukegan its best opportunity yet to move beyond coal.
