Dive Brief:
- Customers of Ameren Illinois could see some bill relief, following decisions by state utility regulators and passage of a sweeping energy bill set to go into effect next year.
- According to The News-Gazette, legislation that aims to support in-state nuclear generation will also lower Ameren bills to the tune of almost $2/month, beginning the middle of next year.
- And in addition, yesterday the Illinois Commerce Commission authorized new lower electric distribution rates that reduce Ameren's revenues by 1.41% annually.
Dive Insight:
A pair of recent decisions could bring Ameren customers some bill relief next year, especially near summer when the state's new energy law takes effect.
Last week, state lawmakers in Illinois passed a sweeping energy bill that includes financial supports for two Exelon nuclear plants at risk of closing, but will also help lower rates for Ameren. And in a separate instance, regulators have reduced the utility's revenue requirements.
Alongside payments to the nuclear plants for 10 years, the bill also expands the state’s energy efficiency programs and makes changes to the state’s renewable portfolio standard sought by renewable advocates. The News-Gazette says that once the bill goes into effect in June, monthly bills for Ameren customers will drop by about $1.93, though by 2023 they will rise beyond today's levels.
And, the Illinois Commerce Commission yesterday authorized new lower electric distribution rates for Ameren, generating almost $14.5 million, or 1.41% less annual revenue, compared to last year. In a statement, the ICC said its decision was the result of a "thorough review of Ameren Illinois’ expenditures on capital projects completed in 2016."
The legislation to support Exelon's nuclear plants has been in the works for years. The final version included last minute changes sought by the governor, such as dropping prevailing wage language from a job creation provision.
