HB2875 - Thermal Energy Network and Jobs Act

• Establishes definitions for "thermal energy" (piped noncombustible fluids for heating and cooling) and "thermal energy network" (utility-scale distribution infrastructure) within the Public Utilities Act.

• Requires the Illinois Commerce Commission to initiate a proceeding within 6 months to support development of pilot thermal energy networks and direct utilities serving over 100,000 customers to file petitions for 1-3 pilot projects within 12 months.

• Mandates that utilities construct or operate pilot projects with labor peace agreements with bona fide labor organizations and requires contractors to certify compliance with prevailing wage requirements under the Prevailing Wage Act.

• Requires pilot projects to include at least one project in economically disadvantaged communities and one focused on existing electric heat customers; utilities must report quarterly on project status, costs, jobs created, and barriers to development.

• Directs the Commission to adopt rules within 4 years of pilot project completion regarding fair market access for thermal energy networks, training and transition of utility workers, and promotion of third-party participation and competition.