Vistra’s approach to its retired and to-be-retired power plant sites in Illinois is set site by site, under permits issued and reviewed by state and federal agencies. This page brings together what the company is doing at those sites, and the policies and reporting behind it.
September 2026 Community Update: Vermilion Riverbank Stabilization
The retired Vermilion Power Station sits near Oakwood in Vermilion County. The plant is carrying out a short, pre-planned project to reinforce a section of riverbank next to the site — a total project time of 10 weeks or less. There has been no release, no breach and no change in the condition of the ash ponds, and the embankments continue to perform as designed.
Separately, under the 2023 Consent Order, all coal ash will be removed from the ponds once the Illinois EPA issues closure permits. Once that work starts, the permanent closure of the ash ponds is expected to take approximately 12 years.
Site Stewardship and Science-Driven Coal Ash Impoundment Closures
Each coal plant site has unique characteristics that guide the closure, retirement, and redevelopment process. Vistra has taken a site-by-site planning approach to determine the best path forward for the responsible retirement of each of its coal plants.
Vistra follows the science at each plant site to develop a responsible and compliant closure plan for its coal combustion residuals, or “CCR,” impoundments. This deliberative process includes evaluating alternative closure methods, extensive modeling, and engaging in a public review process.
Illinois regulations encourage site owners to tailor their closure plan to the unique conditions of their site to ensure the final permitted closure method protects the environment, groundwater resources, and public health.
The state’s pending review of the company’s proposed impoundment closure plans will impact its ability to construct additional utility-scale renewables at retired or to-be-retired plants.
Vistra’s Approach to Environmental Performance
As energy needs evolve, Vistra is focused on delivering the reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy our customers and communities depend on. Through our diverse portfolio of generation resources, safe and efficient operations, and innovative energy products and services, we are working to meet growing demand while managing our environmental impact and supporting a more sustainable energy future.