CUB challenges Ameren Illinois over rate hike and questionable grid spending

DECATUR, Ill. (WAND) — The Citizens Utility Board is pushing back against Ameren Illinois over what it calls unnecessary rate increases that could hit customers hard.

CUB Communications Director Jim Chilsen said the proposed spending is excessive — and customers are already feeling the financial pressure.

"Ameren has a responsibility to manage its budget responsibly. And when it goes past that budget, the burden should be on the utility — not our customers. We think their reconciliation rate hike should be reduced by at least $15 million," Chilsen said.

Ameren says the reconciliation rate case won't make as big of a difference as CUB claims. The company estimates that if the ICC approves the full reconciliation amount, customers would see a monthly increase of just 81 cents.

But this isn't the first time Ameren has brought a grid plan before the ICC. The company proposed one in 2023 that was rejected for failing to prove affordability. Chilsen said Ameren is making the same mistakes again, and everyday customers are paying the price.

"Any increase in bills will be difficult for a lot of customers to endure because prices are up across the board. People are dealing with the cost of living increasing on multiple levels," Chilsen said.

While CUB agrees that Ameren needs to maintain its system, the watchdog stated there is a better way to do it without overburdening customers.

"Everybody agrees that Ameren needs to maintain its system, but they should do it in a way that doesn't bankrupt their customers. That's why consumer advocates get involved, to weed out wasteful, unwarranted and unnecessary spending," Chilsen said.

Chilsen said hearing directly from customers could make all the difference in how the ICC rules on these cases.

"It is so important that the Illinois Commerce Commission hear from real Ameren customers who are going to be impacted by a bloated grid plan," Chilsen said.

ICC judges are expected to issue a proposed order in October, with a final order due around November or December.