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Nicor Gas is looking to make strategic investments to enhance the safety, reliability and resilience of its natural gas system, especially during extreme weather.
The $221 million plan, filed with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), includes the following projects:
- Replacing aging equipment and maintenance of storage facilities;
- Replacing more than 45 miles of distribution pipeline, as recommended by the U.S. Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration;
- Relocating natural gas facilities in coordination with state and local agencies to accommodate public infrastructure improvements; and
- Inspecting and repairing of over 400 miles of transmission pipeline to help ensure the continued safe and reliable delivery of natural gas in compliance with federal regulations.
“Everything we do centers around our customers and communities,” Wendell Dallas, president and CEO of Nicor Gas, said. “We understand that any increase can have an impact, and we don’t make this request lightly. Our engineers and experts draw on more than 160 years of knowledge and experience to help ensure that Illinois families and businesses have the safe, reliable natural gas service they can count on for comfort, warmth and peace of mind.”
The ICC has 11 months to review this request. If approved, a typical residential customer would see an increase of less than $6 per month in their energy delivery charge, or a 6.7 percent annual increase.
The company notes that even with the proposed new rates, Nicor Gas’ distribution rates remain among the lowest of any major natural gas distribution company in Illinois.
Nicor Gas provides natural gas service to 2.3 million homes and businesses across Northern Illinois.
