Fortner Addresses Increased Electric Rates

        “I sat through many hearings as a member of the Least Cost Power Procurement Committee. It became clear to me that the single reverse auction for ComEd and Ameren as approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission was not the best means of purchasing power for consumers in the state. The auction was unable to give us the lowest price,” Fortner said. “This new plan may not be the best solution, but it should move the state toward the best available electric rates. The plan also will give customers some rate relief and more importantly give residents additional time to adjust to the increase.”

        Fortner stated that he had also sponsored a resolution in April which would encourage the Illinois Commerce Commission to move away from sole reliance on a reverse auction. His resolution recommended that ComEd and Ameren design a new procurement method that would limit the amount of power purchased by reverse auction and purchase the remaining power on the open market with state-level oversight. The new purchasing plan is consistent with many aspects of his filed resolution.

        “I expect the new purchasing plan and rate relief to be filed this week as legislation and I look forward to reviewing the actual bill language,” Fortner said. “We need a long term solution that balances affordable electricity with the need for the utilities to have enough capital to update and maintain their current infrastructure.”

        The General Assembly is expected to vote on the rate relief proposal this week. Additional questions can be directed to Rep. Fortner’s office at (630) 293-9344.