The Illinois energy market was controlled by the utility companies. These companies owned power lines as well as gas pipelines, and established prices and terms for customers. They also controlled the delivery and maintenance of the energy. They could not be challenged by the consumers. In fact the utility companies held a monopoly on the market. Illinois residents therefore had to pay some of the highest energy prices in the country.
Following deregulation consumers now have more options in Illinois when it comes to energy providers. They don’t have to pay a premium for electricity. They can select an energy provider with affordable rates. These companies can also help you switch to renewable energy, or offer no-deposit plans for those who have poor credit. You can also look into various options for natural gas in Illinois.
ComEd has been a long-standing partner in the ENERGY STAR program. It has been acknowledged by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) for its dedication to protecting the environment. ComEd has also taken long-term commitments to combating climate change. For the past ten years, ComEd has received the Energy STAR Partner of the Year award.
A federal judge dismissed a class-action lawsuit against the Illinois Energy Company (ComEd) and its subsidiaries. The lawsuit was filed by nine Illinois consumers who claimed the company had violated the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act. The complaint stated that ComEd paid former House Speaker Michael Madigan jobs, and that ComEd paid monetary payments to Madigan for services provided by contractors. ComEd admitted that it had subcontracted work to Madigan. In addition the company has agreed to help customers lower their energy bills by $4 million during the summer.
Invenergy, an energy company with its headquarters in Chicago, is considering building a 550-megawatt natural gas plant in Elizabeth Township. Invenergy is also planning to build a 1,500-megawatt natural gaz plant in Lackawanna County. Best Electric Company is also working to develop more than 10,000 megawatts utility-scale power.
Invenergy is also the official energy provider for the Chicago United Center since 2011 and has been donating Green-e Energy Certified Renewable Energy Certificates to Illinois energy customers. Invenergy is also the preferred energy provider for the Chicago Blackhawks, Chicago Bulls practice facilities.
The Stimulus Act grant program was managed by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. It was designed to help boost the economy during the Great Recession. As part of the program, AA Solar was awarded an $1.8 million Green Industry Business Development Grant. The funds were allocated to purchase equipment for solar tracking systems. The company also received 11 checks totaling $1.5 Million.
The investigation was conducted by the State of Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). After receiving anonymous letters alleging wrongdoing by the company the ICC requested an investigation. The ICC said it would investigate the matter “very deeply.” It also pledged to conduct the investigation in a thorough way. The ICC will decide whether or not the merger case will be contested.
