Following multiple inquiries regarding the future provider of electricity in the Village of Peoria Heights, we at Village Hall would like to respond to alleviate any concerns.
The utility Ameren Illinois recently sent a letter to all Heights residents informing them of the termination of their aggregation agreement, through which the vast majority of local citizens have gotten their electricity through Homefield Energy. Ameren is primarily in the energy delivery business these days, as opposed to the energy supply business. Following utility deregulation in Illinois in 1997, customers were given a choice for their electricity supply needs.
Because of roller coaster pricing and energy supply shortages, the Village’s electric energy broker, Good Energy, was unable to negotiate a contract this past spring for the Village’s electricity needs. That’s what prompted the Ameren Illinois letter.
As a result, Peoria Heights customers will be returned to Ameren Illinois for their electrical supply needs, at least in the short term – potentially the months of June and July (billed in July and August). Local consumers of energy need not take any action for this transition to occur.
Meanwhile, Good Energy is working with multiple potential suppliers to reach agreement on a reasonable price. Once that is secured, we hope to have our aggregation program back on line within the next two months – the choice window – no later than Aug. 1. Local customers will be notified once that occurs. Again, while we are trying to achieve the most competitive energy costs for our residents and will be providing that recommendation, ultimately the choice of an electricity provider is yours.
In short, we in the Village of Peoria Heights are working on this. Don’t worry. Many central Illinois communities are in the same boat. Electricity will continue to flow to your homes and businesses. We will be in touch.
Sincerely,
Michael Phelan
Mayor, Village of Peoria Heights