Progress Illinois

The Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) will hold two public hearings today regarding a water discharge permit for the proposed North Canton Mine near the city of Canton in Fulton County.

Capital Resources Development of Springfield seeks to mine bituminous coal from 774 acres of wooded and agricultural land on an approximately 1085-acre site. IEPA tentatively approved the water discharge and 401 water quality certification permits in August 2011.

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The following is an op-ed by Jack Darin, director of the Sierra Club's Illinois Chapter.

Crazy weather we’re having, right? It’s been a stormy summer, and one full of reminders about the need to invest in our electric grid. It’s also a sign of things to come, according to climate scientists, who for years have been predicting stronger storms and more intense rainfall events for Illinois due to rising pollution levels.

How do we prepare for this uncertain future? Getting serious about the smart grid is not only crucial for keeping the lights on (not to mention your refrigerator and air conditioning), but it also can be a big spark to the emerging clean energy economy in Illinois at a time when Illinois needs the jobs and economic development most.

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