Ensuring affordable and resilient energy infrastructure
As Illinois experiences growth and transformation in the energy landscape our commitment to serving 2.3 million customers remains steadfast. Nicor Gas has filed a request with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) to increase rates, which will enable us to continue investing in resilient energy infrastructure, while also complying with state and federal safety standards. These efforts will enhance our ability to safely, reliably and affordably meet both current and future demands.
Supporting Strategic Investments
Equipment Upgrades & Storage Maintenance
Safety-Driven Pipeline Replacement
Infrastructure Relocation
Pipeline Inspection & Reliability Compliance
2026 Rate Request
Investing in a reliable and sustainable energy future
The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) has approved the settlement reached among Nicor Gas and the parties in the company's 2026 rate request. The settlement balances continued investment in the safe, reliable natural gas service customers depend on with a commitment to helping keep bills affordable.
Under the approved settlement, the average monthly impact for residential customers will be approximately $2.21 per month, or 2.49% of the total annual bill. Actual bills vary based on weather, energy usage and the market price of natural gas.
The settlement also reduces the fixed monthly customer charge from $21.30 to $15.00 per month, decreasing the portion of a customer's bill that is paid regardless of energy usage.
We recognize that any increase matters to our customers. We remain focused on managing costs responsibly, and the approved delivery rates will continue to be among the lowest charged by major natural gas utilities in Illinois. Natural gas also remains one of the most affordable energy sources available, costing significantly less than electricity in our service territory.
The settlement further reflects Nicor Gas' longstanding partnership with organized labor, helping protect good-paying Illinois jobs and support economic opportunity for working families across the state.
Some proposed key upgrades and infrastructure enhancements
- Replacement of aging equipment and maintenance of storage facilities.
- Safety-related replacement of over 45 miles of distribution pipeline, as recommended by the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration.
- Relocation of natural gas facilities in coordination with state and local agencies, to accommodate public infrastructure improvements.
- Inspection, assessment and repair of over 400 miles of transmission pipeline to help ensure the continued safe and reliable delivery of natural gas in compliance with federal regulations.
What is a Rate Request?
Rate requests are formal proceedings directed by state utility commissions used to address the costs of operating and maintaining the utility system. Illinois’ investor-owned utilities must file a general rate case petition with the ICC to determine the total amount the utility is authorized to collect in customer rates and for what share of those costs each customer class is responsible. These proceedings take 11 months and allow for stakeholder participation and public comments.
What is the ICC's Role?
The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), composed of appointed Commissioners, legal counsel and support staff, is responsible for regulating the state’s public utilities to ensure adequate, efficient, reliable, safe and least-cost public utility services. The ICC thoroughly evaluates rate requests to balance the interests of consumers and utilities.
