Nicor Gas on Friday filed a $221 million rate hike request with the Illinois Commerce Commission, less than two months after state regulators approved a $168 million rate hike for the utility.
Nicor distributes natural gas to about 2.3 million customers in northern Illinois. The company estimates that the increase, if approved in full, will add less than $6 to monthly gas bills for typical residential customers, or 6.7% annually, starting in 2027.
Consumer advocates expressed outrage with the move, calling on state regulators to reject the request.
Nicor said in a statement that the investment is needed to enhance the reliability of its natural gas distribution system, particularly through extreme weather, and to remain in compliance with state and federal regulations.
