EDF Helps Defend Illinois’ Clean Energy Future in Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals

(Chicago – November 6, 2017) Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) has joined a coalition of clean energy, public health, and consumer advocates to support Illinois’ right to craft critical clean energy, environmental, and public health policies.

The groups filed an amicus, or “friend of the court,” brief in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit late Friday.

“Illinois has shown a commitment to supporting vital efforts to reduce climate pollution and to transition to clean energy – efforts that can provide profound benefits for the health and safety of Illinois families,” said EDF Senior Attorney Michael Panfil. “Ensuring that every state has the right to fight for its citizens’ future is why we’re asking the court to secure Illinois’ fundamental authority to craft a strong clean energy policy.”

Illinois is asking the court to affirm a lower court decision dismissing a complaint against the state’s zero-emissions policy.

The case is Electric Power Supply Association v. Star. It was previously heard by the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, which ruled in favor of Illinois — affirming the state’s public policy authority.

EDF, Citizens’ Utility Board, Respiratory Health Association, NRDC, and Elevate Energy submitted the amicus brief in support of Illinois.