The current problem began in 1997 when the Legislature froze electric rates as part of a deregulation plan. Officials hoped more power companies would enter the market and drive down prices. That didn’t happen and St. Louis-based Ameren took control over several Illinois electricity providers. When the freeze ended, rates soared -- especially for Ameren’s customers in central and southern Illinois.
Our position has been that extending the freeze was not in anyone’s best interest. We felt the increase should be phased in over three years. Much blame should go to the Illinois General Assembly, which failed to do anything in the weeks and months leading up to the end of the freeze.
Ameren officials, however, have completely botched the transition to the higher rates. Failing to inform customers that Ameren was eliminating the price break for all-electric users and dropping the phased-in rate increase are inexcusable.
Agreed so far. But is this the best solution?
Despite Emil Jones’ one-man stand, Illinois legislators, Gov. Rod Blagojevich and the Illinois Commerce Commission need to step in and help Ameren officials clean up this mess.
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