ILLINOIS — Residents across the state are bracing for a jump in their monthly electricity bills this summer, as Ameren Illinois confirms a significant rate increase — raising the supply rate from $0.08 to $0.12 per kilowatt-hour, or roughly an 18% to 22% hike.
The increase is expected to cost the average household about $45 more each month from June through September. This comes at a time when energy usage typically spikes due to air conditioning needs.
Why Rates Are Rising
Although Ameren is responsible for delivering electricity, it does not set the electricity supply prices. Instead, that responsibility falls on the Illinois Power Agency (IPA). The higher costs are being driven by a 20-fold surge in summer capacity prices, according to Ameren spokeswoman Marcelyn Love.
“Ameren Illinois simply passes those costs along to customers, dollar-for-dollar without markup,” Love explained.
How Customers Can Save
To help households manage this financial strain, Stephanie Robinson, a senior energy efficiency program supervisor at Ameren, recommends taking advantage of smart thermostats and efficiency rebates.
Some tips shared by Robinson include:
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Install a smart thermostat – Ameren offers free or low-cost options with installation help. A typical home can save up to $180 annually.
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Use ceiling fans counter-clockwise to create cool airflow.
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Avoid overcooling the home – smart thermostats can adjust temperatures when the house is empty.
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Maintain your AC system – clean filters every three months.
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Keep curtains closed during the day to block out heat.
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Air dry clothes instead of using a dryer.
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Cook outside on grills instead of using indoor stoves, which heat the home.
Help Is Available
Ameren Illinois also provides financial assistance and flexible payment programs to help offset costs for families facing hardship. The new rates will be visible on June billing statements and will likely stay in effect until September.
Are you seeing your electricity bill spike already? What energy-saving tricks work best for your home? Share your tips or concerns in the comments on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
