Chicago Battle : At a public meeting on Tuesday, people who are upset about their rising energy bills will have a chance to share their thoughts. The goal of the meeting is to get state regulators to reject a big part of Peoples Gas’s planned $402 million rate hike.
The Illinois Commerce Commission, which needs to decide on the utility’s rate increase request by year-end, will hold a forum to gather public input on the plan. The event is at UIC’s Dorin Forum, 725 W. Roosevelt Road, from 6 to 9 p.m.
Citizens Utility Board (CUB), a non-profit watchdog, is leading the fight against the rate hike. They say that it would lead to a
“excessive profit rate.” CUB wants the proposed increase to be cut by at least $63 million, and they want a lot of people to show up to voice their worries and make it clear where they stand on this record-high request.
Sarah Moskowitz, CUB’s executive director, was concerned about Chicago families’ ability to pay gas bills. She emphasized the need to prevent Peoples Gas from receiving a blank check.
Peoples Gas says it’s the first rate raise in nine years. They say it’s important to keep Chicago safe, reliable, and eco-friendly.
If the rate hike happens, the average monthly bill for a home would increase by around $11.83 from January. The utility company predicts costs will remain stable as natural gas prices are expected to decrease.
IL AG Kwame Raoul also commented. He proposed cutting the planned increase by $49.2 million. He suggests that Peoples Gas cut spending as it conflicts with the state’s energy plans.
At the Tues meeting, each person gets 3 mins to speak. Written comments accepted, allowing for additional opinion expression.
This meeting is crucial as it allows the community to voice their opinions and influence decisions impacting energy rates and financial well-being. The outcome will impact future rates and demonstrate the success of consumer lobbying in shaping energy policies and protecting consumers’ interests.