He puts alternative energy suppliers (to small customers, including home-owners) on notice.

State Sen. Don Harmon issued an unusual threat to retail energy suppliers yesterday after tabling a proposal they oppose to reform the state’s clean energy law. [italics added]

In a message circulated among groups and lawmakers negotiating the terms of the bill, the Oak Park Democrat criticized the Illinois Competitive Energy Association [ICEA], which represents suppliers, for claiming the measure would raise electric rates on residential customers.

What did he say that constituted “an unusual threat”?

“While we [he and another Dem senator and a Mike Madigan aide] question whether this suggestion [?objection?] can be supported with facts and figures, the mere specter is enough to give legislators pause, especially as we deal with other weighty issues in the veto session. . . .

“We would urge ICEA to use this brief delay [the bill’s tabling] to prove…