Peoples Gas rate hike recommended to be cut by 54 percent

Administrative law judges have recommended that the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) reduce a proposed $144 million rate increase requested by Peoples Gas. The proposed order suggests a $66 million hike, which would represent a 54 percent reduction from the utility's original request.

The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) has urged regulators to cut the increase even further, citing a heating affordability crisis. CUB noted that more than 160,000 families are currently more than 30 days behind on their gas bills, and consumers owe the utility more than $90 million in debt. If the $66 million increase is approved, it would affect more than 800,000 residential customers in Chicago.

Peoples Gas stated it is currently assessing the 390-page proposed order. The ICC is expected to issue a final ruling on the matter in November.