Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – If you’re a customer of Ameren in Illinois, your electric bill is expected to rise 18 to 22 percent during the summer months.

That’s according to utility data through the Citizens Utility Board, who thinks prices will lower somewhat in the fall, even as Ameren itself pays up to 50 percent more for the power you get.

CUB spokesperson Jim Chilsen says that’s why it’s important to take steps to make your home more energy efficient.

“On June first, Ameren’s price for electricity is expected to skyrocket by about 50 percent,” said Chilsen.  “Customers could easily end up paying well over $100 extra on their power bills this summer.”

Policy and pricing changes involving the regional electric grid are said to blame.

Chilsen suggests keeping in contact with the utility, especially if you start to struggle to pay the bill. He says Ameren needs to help its customers as much as possible.

But in order to lower your electric bill, Chilsen suggests a few things.

“Simple things like weatherizing your windows and doors can help soften the blow of this price spike,” said Chilsen. “But, please, we don’t want anyone to take unnecessary risks that keep their homes too hot, and threaten their health.”

The increases mean customers will pay an average of $37.62 to $45.98 per month during the four month period.  CUB has set up a website to help electric customers get through the summer.

Springfield electric customers are through City Water, Light, and Power, not Ameren.