Q: How much is the rate increase?
A: The change in your rates depends on your rate class. Please refer to the Gas Rates and Costs page for the changes relative to your rate class. Even with this change, Nicor Gas remains the lowest-cost provider among major Illinois natural gas utilities and is among the lowest-cost providers in the nation.
Q: When was your last rate increase?
A: The last increase took effect in October, 2005. Prior to 2005, Nicor Gas had not changed its rates for 10 years. This latest increase is related to an Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) ruling on a previously unresolved issue with our rate relief request from earlier in 2009.
Q: Why was the increase necessary?
A: The increase was necessary to ensure that Nicor Gas can continue to provide safe and reliable natural gas service to the more than 2 million homes and businesses in northern Illinois that depend on us.
Q: How will the increase be used?
A: The increase in rates is needed to recover higher operating costs, higher material and fuel costs, and investments in our distribution pipeline system and natural gas storage facilities.
Q: Why are there two sets of charges shown on my bill?
A: Because the new rates only apply to gas service used on or after October 15, 2009 your first bill will also include separate calculations for gas service billed at the previous rates.
Important features of your Nicor Gas bill
Q: What is the Efficiency Program charge?
A: Beginning in June, your bill will include a charge to fund programs that encourage energy efficiency and conservation, while also helping to protect the environment for the future. This program is administered by Nicor Gas and a board of governance. Nicor Gas does not profit from this charge.
Please note: This charge only pertains to residential customers and commercial customers on Rates 4 and 74.
Learn about Nicor's commitment to the environment
Q: Who determines Nicor Gas' delivery rates?
A: Nicor Gas is a regulated utility. Its delivery rates are approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission.
Illinois Commerce Commission Web site
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