Proposal Details:
Ameren Illinois has requested permission to raise natural gas delivery rates by $128.8 million, citing the need to meet federal safety mandates and replace aging infrastructure. The company estimates this would add about $6 per month to the average residential bill.
Concerns from Watchdogs:
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The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) and Illinois PIRG argue the increase would place additional financial strain on families.
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Ameren’s proposed hike would be its fourth since 2018, totaling nearly $200 million in increases over seven years.
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An administrative law judge recommended cutting the request by $44 million, but consumer groups say this doesn’t go far enough.
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Jim Chilsen of CUB called the proposed hike a “money grab” and urged the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) to reduce it further.
Ameren’s Response:
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40% of the increase is needed to comply with federal pipeline testing requirements by 2035.
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Additional funds are for replacing leak-prone pipes, as half of Ameren’s pipeline network is over 50 years old.
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Even with the increase, Ameren says its average total gas rate would remain below the national average: $1.50 per unit versus $1.85 nationally.
Next Steps:
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The ICC is expected to issue a final decision by Dec. 1.
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Consumer groups will hold a public forum on Nov. 1 in East St. Louis to discuss the proposal and the future of gas utilities in Illinois.
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