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 and modern customer solutions. 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 Coordination & Relocation
Pipeline Inspection & Reliability Compliance
2026 Rate Request
Investing in a Reliable and Sustainable Energy Future
Nicor Gas’ natural gas system provides dependable, resilient and affordable energy to customers when they need it, even on the coldest winter days. As Illinois’ largest natural gas provider, we continue to deliver the clean, safe, reliable and affordable natural gas service that our customers expect and deserve.
On Jan. 9, Nicor Gas filed a proposed request of approximately $221 million with the ICC, which has 11 months to review.* If approved, the adjusted rates will allow the company to meet evolving federal regulations, continue to maintain and modernize our system and recover inflationary costs that have resulted in higher operating and maintenance costs.
Nicor Gas’ proposed improvements will help enhance the integrity, reliability and resilience of our system—especially during extreme weather, while also aligning with Illinois’ broader efforts to drive economic growth and achieve sustainability.
With this proposed request, if approved, an average residential customer will experience an increase of about $6 per month in their annual natural gas bill compared to current rates. With this proposed rate increase, Nicor Gas would remain one of the lowest-cost providers of natural gas to residential customers in Illinois.
All utilities, including Nicor Gas, must submit rate requests to the ICC for approval.
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.
2026 Rate Request Docket
(Case Details for XX-XXXX)
View the public filings record for docket #XX-XXXX at the Illinois Commerce Commission
What Is a Rate Case?
Rate cases 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.
*Throughout the 11-month period, multiple parties evaluate the proposal, and the proposed figures may be revised before the ICC reaches a final decision.