http://stream.publicbroadcasting.net/production/mp3/wium/local-wium-899166.mp3
Springfield, IL – The Illinois Commerce Commission shocked Ameren with its ruling on the utility's rate hike request.
Ameren asked for a $162 million increase in rates, but the ICC chose to limit the increase to $4.75 million.
The commission says the decision limits cost increases for Illinois families and businesses while still allowing for reliable service. Acting Chairman Manuel Flores says it was a deliberate and fair decision.
"The duty of the commission is to set rates. It's not to raise rates or lower rates, but it's to make decisions based on the evidentiary record," says Flores.
The Citizen's Utility Board's Jim Chilsen says it's a victory for consumers, and proves Ameren's request was bloated.
But Ameren says the decision might hinder its ability to provide service. The company says it will review the commission's decision to see if there are further steps to be taken.
The price for delivering electricity varies depending where in central or southern Illinois someone lives. The average increases range from just over 1% to 7.6%.
The ICC says the delivery costs for an average Ameren CIPS electric customer will be about 7.6% higher. The delivery cost of gas will decrease approximately 4%.
The new rates are set to take effect in early May.
Thanks to Illinois Public Radio and The Illinois Associated Press