For Release: Friday, April 14, 2006
Contact: David Gillies: 202-225-5661

COSTELLO STATEMENT ON PROPOSED FUTUREGEN SITES

Washington - U.S. Congressman Jerry Costello (D-IL) issued the following statement concerning the criteria adopted by the FutureGen Alliance and possible sites in Illinois:

"Last month, the FutureGen Industrial Alliance formalized a request for proposals (RFP) to host the FutureGen project.  The State of Illinois is currently in the process of determining what sites in Illinois fit the criteria, and this work is ongoing.  One of the conditions in the RFP regards seismic activity.  The standards for seismic activity are stringent, so much so that sites in Southern Illinois, due to our proximity to the New Madrid Fault, do not meet them.  I have had discussions with the Alliance regarding the suitability of these standards and sites in Southern Illinois are still being tested.  However, due to this fact, it is unlikely that any sites south of Effingham County will be viable, despite meeting all other criteria." 

"While I am disappointed, from the beginning I have said that this project will benefit Southern Illinois no matter where it is located.  The key is to continue to develop technologies that allow for the economical use of Illinois coal.  I will continue to work to have FutureGen located in Illinois and bring this important facility to fruition."

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