Speaker Welch Joins Governor, Senate President on International Trip to Promote Illinois’ Green Energy Future

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch is joining Governor JB Pritzker and Senate President Don Harmon on a trip to London to promote Illinois' climate leadership and encourage economic development opportunities.

"Addressing climate change cannot wait and thanks to the work we've done in the legislature, in collaboration with Governor Pritzker, Illinois is leading the nation in the clean energy economy," said House Speaker Emanuel "Chris" Welch. "Illinois has a clear path to a carbon-free future with a more diversified energy sector. We have a talented workforce with world-class training facilities. We know Illinois' economy and location makes it a desirable place for companies to build and expand, and that's what this trip is about. Making sure Illinois is where these job creators call home."

Speaker Welch will join the Governor, Senate President and top staff to discuss Illinois' economic development and investment opportunities with business leaders in the green energy sector. Thanks to the passage of the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, as well as the Reimaging Electric Vehicles Act, Illinois is positioned as an ideal location for climate-friendly companies.

"Illinois is leading the Midwest on climate action and building a green energy economy and I am eager to tout our success abroad," said Governor JB Pritzker. "Our historic clean energy legislation, talented workforce, and role as a transportation hub for the nation makes our state a top destination for international companies looking to do business in the U.S."

Speaker Welch left the U.S. on Wednesday, November 3 and will return on Saturday, November 6. He will network and meet with many businesses in the green energy sector to promote Illinois becoming the leading Midwest state on climate action and clean energy.