Will County Board seeks lower electric rates

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Updated: February 23, 2012 8:01AM

The Will County Board recently approved an ordinance that could pave the way for lower electricity rates for residential and small business owners.

The lower rates would be sought through a coalition of municipalities organized and represented by the Will County Governmental League.

“Over the last decade, a lot has changed in the way that Illinois electricity is supplied,” said chairman Jim Moustis. “Unfortunately, some electrical customers have failed to benefit from lower electricity costs from retail and wholesale competition. However, Will County now has the opportunity to save residents money on their electricity bill by negotiating rates, and we’re going to pursue that.”

Board member Tom Weigel (R-New Lenox) raised the question several months ago as to whether the county could negotiate lower rates for unincorporated residents.

“The savings for the average homeowner could be significant, as much as $200 annually,” Weigel said. “The idea of aggregation is really about the leverage that a large group can have when negotiating better rates. This is a win-win, and we strongly encourage residents to vote in favor of the referendum question on the March 20 election ballot.”

To date, the Will County Governmental League has had 20 municipal members join its Will Utility Aggregation Group, which would bid out to electricity suppliers on behalf of their members.

Assuming the referendum passes, the board will need to conduct a minimum of two public hearings before the ordinance officially can be adopted.

Residents will have multiple chances to opt out of the program.

“This is a great opportunity for us to partner with our municipalities and lower the electric bills of our residents,” said minority leader Walter Adamic (D-Joliet). “During tough economic times, this is one of the ways local governments can help put money back in the pockets of citizens.”