Illinois is undergoing a significant transformation in its energy sector, with legislation dictating the retirement of coal-fired power plants and the shift of natural gas plants to green hydrogen. The transition poses challenges related to ensuring grid reliability and meeting energy demand. Reports from PJM and NRDC underscore the importance of regional transmission upgrades to accommodate the changing energy landscape. The NRDC report specifically emphasizes the need for battery energy storage systems (BESS) to address power shortfalls. A simulation study conducted by NRDC identified that 3GW of BESS would be required to meet reliability targets by 2030. The 'Coal to Solar Energy Storage' grant program by the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity supports the development of energy storage projects at the sites of closing coal-fired plants. Fortune 500 company Vistra Energy is set to receive funding for three energy storage projects in Illinois, contributing to the region's energy storage capacity. These initiatives mark positive steps towards achieving a cleaner and more sustainable energy future in Illinois.