Ameren Illinois’ request to hike natural gas rates has been cut nearly in half by the Illinois Commerce Commission, sharply reducing the proposed increase by $55.8 million. Ameren’s original request of $128.8 million has been reduced by the commission to $73 million—a cut of $55.8 million, nearly 43 percent less than sought. Additionally, the commission set the allowed return on equity at 9.60 percent, down from Ameren’s proposed 10.70 percent. The decision aims to balance the company’s financial interests with consumer protection and will affect what Illinois customers pay for natural gas delivery, starting with their next utility bills.
Regulators emphasize the decision is designed to shield customers from rising infrastructure costs while keeping household energy bills in check. Consumer advocates are welcoming the ruling, saying it helps ensure utility affordability during uncertain economic times. Ameren Illinois officials say they’re reviewing the decision and vow to continue maintaining reliable natural gas service.
“The ICC’s responsibility is to balance the interests of Illinois’ utilities and their consumers. We recognize that any decision impacting Illinoisans’ bills is not a small one, and after careful review of Ameren’s proposed investments, the Commission opted to strike excess charges and approve necessary and justified projects,” said ICC Chairman Doug Scott.
“Both Ameren and Nicor’s gas orders appropriately defer several important investment, infrastructure, and policy planning questions to collaborative forums like the ongoing Future of Gas series and upcoming Low-Income Discount workshops. These stakeholder discussions are important to analyze potential pilot programs, review broader decarbonization strategies, and consider implications of the state’s low-income discount programs. The ICC confirmed today that Illinois’ LID programs must maintain a 3 percent energy burden for our most vulnerable natural gas and electric customers,” said ICC Commissioner Stacey Paradis.
As energy costs continue to burden central and southern Illinois residents, struggling customers are being urged to seek help through the state’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program. Alongside state aid, Ameren customers may qualify for additional discounts on their utility bills. Applications and eligibility details for both programs are available online. Ameren Illinois currently provides natural gas service to 800,000 customers throughout the region. For those interested in recent developments regarding utility rates, information can be found under Docket No. 25-0084. Households are encouraged to act quickly, as assistance funds may be limited.
