How A Rate Case Works

The rate case process takes time — about 11 months from developing the case to the time new energy rates take effect.

Rate Case Process

1. Rate Case Preparation
   Illinois Gas Company reviews budgets, analyzes sales and construction forecasts and develops the rate case.
2. Filing
   Illinois Gas Company files rate case with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC).
3. Review
   The ICC and interveners examine budget information from Illinois Gas Company, asks us to defend and update figures provided.
4. Hearings
   The public has an opportunity to comment. Witnesses that support the figures in the rate case are available for cross examination in a court-like proceeding.
5. Ruling
   The ICC decides any outstanding matters and issues a written order on the rate request.
6. Rates Take Effect
   New rates take effect for customers.

Customer Rights & Responsibilities

Over the past several years, the Illinois Commerce Commission and other Illinois utilities worked to improve the state’s regulations dealing with customer rights and responsibilities. These regulations, known as 83 Illinois Administrative Code Section 280 (Part 280), establish fair, clear procedures for utilities to follow regarding:

• Eligibility for service
• Customer deposits
• Billing
• Payments
• Refunds
• Disconnection of service

The improvements called for in the revised Part 280 must be fully implemented by May 1, 2016.

If you have questions about Part 280, please call us at 800-633-6250. You can read Part 280 online or review copies of it at the ICC’s offices at 160 N. LaSalle St., Suite C-800, Chicago, IL 60601 or 527 E. Capitol Ave., Springfield, IL 62701.