Illinois Opens Investigation of ComEd Supply Rate Subsidies to Certain Customers

The Illinois Commerce Commission has opened an investigation into Commonwealth Edison's current rate design which provides generation supply rate subsidies to non-residential space heat and lighting customers (Docket 14-0385).

Through the original design of supply charges under Rate BES - Basic Electric Service, which are determined pursuant to the methodology described in Rider PE - Purchased Electricity, substantial subsidies were provided to customers with electric space heat and to dusk-to-dawn lighting customers.

The ICC previously addressed supply rate subsidies for residential space heating customers, and instituted a single Price to Compare for all non-Time-of-Use ComEd residential customers.

However, as non-residential rate design was not originally part of that prior proceeding, the ICC did not take action on non-residential rate subsidies at that time.