Watchdog groups in Illinois are demanding reforms to Peoples Gas' costly pipeline replacement program, citing a dramatic increase in expenses and its impact on consumer rates. While Peoples Gas defends the program's necessity for public safety, the groups argue for alternative solutions that would mitigate the financial burden on residents.
The Illinois Public Interest Research Group and the Citizens Utility Board are calling for reforms to Peoples Gas pipeline replacement program, citing significant cost increases. Originally projected at $1 billion, the program's expenses have surged to $12.8 billion, according to these watchdog groups. They assert that these escalating costs were a pivotal factor in the Illinois Commerce Commission 's (ICC) approval of a record $305 million rate hike in November 2023.
In response, Peoples Gas released a statement defending the program, emphasizing the age and condition of Chicago's gas pipeline system, much of which dates back to the 19th century. The company stressed that independent safety experts and two judges have recommended the continuation of the work, characterizing the upgrades as 'critical' for public safety. Peoples Gas further claimed that the watchdog groups' proposals to modify the program would result in an additional $5.5 billion in costs while overlooking essential safety updates.The full statement from Peoples Gas is as follows: 'Chicagoans need a safe and reliable heating system, especially on frigid days like today. The current system beneath Chicago dates back to the 1800's. Independent experts agree it needs updating. Safety engineers and two judges are urging state regulators to let this critical work continue. Political activists with extreme agendas are out of touch with reality and telling people to ignore the facts. Their approach would add $5.5 billion in costs, and ignores crucial safety needs.
Peoples Gas Pipeline Replacement Rate Hike Illinois Commerce Commission Utility Costs
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