Media Article
Consumer advocates say regulators should slash Ameren Illinois’ proposed $134M rate hike
Consumer advocates are pushing back against Ameren Illinois’ $134 million rate hike request for natural gas services that’s currently before state regulators. The watchdog groups contend the Illinois Commerce Commission, the state regulatory body, should reject at least two-thirds of the proposal. “t Ameren’s bid for a $134 million rate hike is unjust, unreasonable — and at least triple what the utility can possibly justify,” said Jim Chilsen, a spokesman for the Citizens Utility Boardy. The affordability issues and reducing expenditures on infrastructure by Ameren are “also the best solutions for a healthy, livable planet,” said Curt Stokes, an attorney with the Environmental Defense Fund. “Expanding and just doubling down on investments in this natural gas distribution system is not going to get Illinois to a zero carbon economy by 2050,” Stokes said.
Blog
Energy Affordability for All: How states are reducing energy cost burdens through rate setting
Energy affordability has become a major concern for customers as utility rates rise across the country. Since 2001, the average cost of electricity per kilowatt has nearly doubled for residential customers, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration. Low-income households are facing the brunt of this burden. According to 2024 research, low-income households in the U.S. spend about 17% of their income on utilities, about three times the national average
FeaturedPress Release
Report: managed gas transition strategies for Illinois
A new report finds that Illinois’ largest gas utilities’ current capital spending on gas systems will raise customers' rates sharply and could lead to stranded assets of $80 billion by 2050. To avoid this costly path, the report recommends a strategically managed gas transition to clean, renewable energy sources, which will also reduce the climate and air pollution Illinois currently experiences, particularly in environmental justice and low-income communities.
Blog
EDF’s new equity map shows state efforts to make the energy transition fairer for all
Across the U.S. states are passing laws that will ensure greater equity as we transition to a clean energy system. EDF has developed an interactive map – based on our new report, the State Climate Equity Survey – that documents states’ efforts to make their energy transition more equitable and healthier. Our new map identifies which states require, allow, or promote consideration of equity and environmental justice in agency decision-making and budget-setting.
