Illinois lawmakers are considering clean-energy legislation backed by Exelon Corp. to keep three unprofitable nuclear plants afloat.

The idea proposed Thursday would require utilities to reward producers of low-carbon power for being environmentally friendly. That would include wind, solar, water and clean-burning coal as well as nuclear.

Exelon's Joseph Dominguez (doh-MIHN'-ghez) says the company supports the plan and that any low-carbon source could compete.

Labor and political leaders say it would help Exelon keep open nuclear plants in the Quad Cities, Byron and Clinton. The company says they're unprofitable because of competition from natural gas and wind.

A group called Illinois Clean Jobs Coalition says another energy bill introduced last week would better expand renewable energy sources and encourage energy efficiency.

The bills are HB3293 and HB2607.