One of Illinois’ utility watchdogs is promising to study a new rate hike request by Ameren Illinois. The utility has asked the Illinois Commerce Commission for about $160 million on the natural gas side and a four-year electric rate hike of about $435.6 million. Citizens Utility Board spokesman Jim Chilsen says he is leery of the Ameren’s request.
Ameren says the rate adjustment would increase the average household bill about $6 per month on the electric side, and just slightly more than that for natural gas. Company spokesman Tucker Kennedy.
The estimated cost to electric consumers is based on monthly usage of about 10,000 kW, while the natural gas estimate of $6.68 per month is based on monthly usage of about 745 therms.
The Illinois Commerce Commission will hold hearings and take comments over the next eight months or so before rendering a decision. If approved, new rates would take effect early next year.