On April 11, 2023, EPA announced the award of a $3 million climate planning grant to Illinois from the IRA section 60114 Climate Pollution Reduction Grant program (CPRG). The CPRG program supports states, territories, Tribes, municipalities, and air agencies in the creation of comprehensive and innovative pollution reduction strategies that maximize benefits, especially for low-income and disadvantaged communities
The state will use the funds to develop a climate action plan and to conduct meaningful engagement including with low income and disadvantaged communities throughout Illinois. As a recipient of the planning grant worth $3 million, Illinois is eligible to apply for an implementation grant, also authorized by the IRA, which will be subject to a competitive national grant competition later this year.