AARP Illinois State Director Philippe Largent’s Statement on People’s Gas Proposal

Contact: Vikki Ortiz, Communications Director

vortiz@aarp.org; (630) 915-3625

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Jan. 6, 2023

AARP Illinois is astounded by People’s Gas proposal to the Illinois Commerce Commission of a $402 million rate hike for consumers on Friday. Only a utility company that for years has gouged consumers with unfair surcharges would impose the largest rate hike in history at a time when people can afford it least.

We are, however, encouraged by People’s Gas indication that it will not pursue an extension of their expensive QIP (Qualified Infrastructure Plant) surcharge. That surcharge, which the utility has in the past claimed to need in order to cover a pipe replacement program, has proven to be a failed experiment that has cost Illinoisans too much for far too long.

If indeed the surcharge is discontinued, AARP Illinois believes it is a step in the right direction in ensuring that People’s Gas and other providers do not continue unfair and burdensome surcharges on Illinois’ consumers.

On behalf of our 1.7 million members and all older adults across the state, AARP Illinois  commends the pro-consumer utility coalition for its powerful stance that played a key role in moving People’s Gas away from the surcharge.

 AARP Illinois will proudly continue our collaboration with consumer advocates and allies in the coalition in the coming months.