In Illinois, the Office of Energy and Recycling, a division of Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO), demonstrates the economic development benefits. The division promotes energy efficiency, renewable energy, and recycling through a variety of programs and services. The programs initiated by the division demonstrate that economic development, sustainable energy, recycling practices, and environmental protection go together. The division, through its energy and recycling policies and practices promotes the leadership of the State of Illinois at state facilities. In order to achieve the mission, the division organizes individually tailored programs to assist Illinois citizens, communities, non-profit organizations, businesses, industry, and other government agencies. The programs focus on:
- energy efficiency;
- renewable fuels;
- clean energy; and
- recycling.
The Illinois Commerce Commission is a quasi-judicial tribunal which regulates public utility services in Illinois. The commission provides consumer services and regulates public utility works. The consumer services provide educational information on utility issues, resolve customer/utility disputes, and develop rules on utility service and consumer protection. The commission’s public utility work focuses on financial and operational analysis, policy development, and public safety and enforcement activities. Enforcement activities are provided to electric, natural gas, water, sewer, and telecommunications companies.
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is a cabinet-level department of the state government of Illinois. The IDNR aims to manage, conserve, and protect Illinois’ natural, recreational, and cultural resources. The Division of Oil and Gas (DOG) in the Office of Mines and Minerals (OMM) of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) protects Illinois land and water resources and promotes orderly resource development during exploration and production of oil and gas.
The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA), a division of the IDNR, administers the major environmental protection laws in Illinois.