This spring we informed you about a spike in electric capacity prices and a projected increase in summer energy bills for residents and businesses. At the time, we estimated that the supply rate increase would raise bill amounts by approximately 18% to 22%. The June/July heat dome has led to higher energy usage which, unfortunately, means many customers are seeing higher than expected increases on their monthly bills.
You may hear, if you haven’t already, from constituents expressing their concerns about their bills. The [attached] document is a tool you can use to help explain this situation.
Importantly, we want to make you aware of a new program Ameren Illinois has launched to provide financial relief to income-qualified customers. The Supplemental Arrearage Reduction Program (SARP) is a $10 million initiative providing customers who qualify for LIHEAP with up to $1,000 per year for each service connection (gas and electric) to help them reduce their outstanding energy bills.
We are reaching out to customers directly to inform them about this program, and we encourage you to share the word with constituents that may be eligible. Eligible customers are able to see and apply for the program by locating the main dashboard of their customer account.
Along with the SARP, Ameren Illinois continues to promote and assist customers with our other available programs. To date (YTD), we have administered the following funds to assist our customers:
- LIHEAP: $29 million
- Warm Neighbors Cool Friends: $365,000
- PIPP: $3.8 million
- Natural Gas Service Discount (LICA): $16.6 million
- Fresh Start: $1.5 million
- Community Assistance $2.3 million
Information on these programs and more can be found here. If you have any questions, please refer to the FAQ attachment or reach out to customer service at 1-800-755-5000.