Public input sought on future of Joppa Power Plant in Southern Illinois

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

MASSAC COUNTY, Ill., (KBSI) — A new effort is encouraging Southern Illinois residents to weigh in on the future of the Joppa Power Plant as state regulators review options for the site.

The campaign, backed by Renew Illinois Power, is urging the public to submit comments to the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency as it considers closure and redevelopment plans.

The coal-fired plant, located along the Ohio River, began operating in the 1950s and was once one of the region’s largest power facilities. In recent years, operations have largely ceased due to environmental regulations and rising costs associated with coal energy.

Supporters of redevelopment say the site could be repurposed for future energy production while creating construction jobs and generating tax revenue.

A key issue in the review process is how to handle coal ash at the site. The group opposes “closure by removal,” which would involve transporting the ash off-site, citing concerns about increased truck traffic and potential impacts on local communities.

Advocates instead support managing the material on-site as part of redevelopment efforts.

The Illinois EPA has not made a final decision. Public comments are part of the review process.