September 22, 2020 – Yesterday, the Illinois Commerce Commission announced that the moratorium on disconnections has been voluntarily been extended by several state-regulated utilities through the Winter of 2021. Low-income residential customers and those who self-report to utilities that they are experiencing hardship are eligible. The moratorium was previously due to end on September 30, 2020.
Ameren Illinois, Aqua Illinois, Illinois American Water, Commonwealth Edison, Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas, and Utility Services of Illinois, MidAmerican, and Nicor Gas and Liberty Utilities have committed to prolonging the moratorium on utility disconnections until March 31, 2021. “Illinois citizens are facing extraordinary challenges due to the pandemic. Low-income families and those impacted by COVID-19 should not have to fear losing basic services like electricity, heat, or fresh water,” said Chairman Carrie K. Zalewski. “The voluntary actions by these utilities will provide our most vulnerable citizens with some peace of mind, especially as cold weather approaches. We appreciate the utility companies for their responsiveness and action.”
The ICC is reminding customers to make sure to call the utility company if you have missed payments or are struggling to make them. Documentation is not necessary, but customers must call and verbalize their situation. Deferred payment arrangements are available for both small business customers and residential customers that need help managing their utility bills.
