Rate Shock Looms as Ameren Pushes for $128 Million Gas Hike

GraniteCityGossip.com October 18, 2025

Ameren Illinois is seeking approval from state regulators to raise its natural gas delivery rates by $128.8 million, a move the utility says is necessary to meet federal safety mandates and replace aging infrastructure. If granted, the increase would mark the company’s fourth gas rate hike since 2018, continuing a trend that has already added more than $200 million to delivery charges over the past seven years.

Ameren claims the increase would add about $6 per month to the average residential customer’s bill, but consumer advocates say this estimate is based on minimal usage and doesn’t reflect the higher delivery volumes typical in winter. For households with monthly bills around $200, the increase could be closer to $10–$15 or more, and for families with higher winter usage or older homes, the impact could be even greater.

The company frames the increase as a necessary investment in safety and reliability, citing aging infrastructure and federal compliance mandates.

But with a history of hefty profits, customers wonder why these now-urgent upgrades weren’t gradually addressed over the years to maintain required standards, instead of profits funneling into executive bonuses and shareholder returns.

Two administrative law judges recently recommended that the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) reduce the proposed hike by about $44 million. However, the final decision rests with the five-member ICC, which is expected to rule by December 1.

For Granite City residents, the timing of this request being just ahead of winter, raises concerns about affordability and access to heat during the coldest months. As the ICC weighs its decision, many in the community are bracing for the impact and hoping for a more balanced outcome, and to not find themselves left out in the cold.