Springfield, IL  (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The Illinois Commerce Commission is encouraging eligible natural gas customers to enroll in a new Low-Income Discount Rate program aimed at easing gas bills this winter. The program will offer monthly bill credits between 5% and 83% for qualifying customers, based on factors like income level, household size, and local utility costs.

ICC Chairman Doug Scott emphasized the importance of this support: “Families shouldn’t have to decide between putting food on the table or heating their homes this winter.”

The program follows a 2023 ICC mandate requiring Illinois’ largest gas, electric, and water companies to offer these discounts to customers at or below 300% of the Federal Poverty Level. Participating utilities will report annually on the program’s impact on costs.

Customers already part of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) will be automatically enrolled in the new discount program, though they must reapply to LIHEAP each year to keep their enrollment. Those not eligible for LIHEAP but earning between 201% and 300% of the FPL can receive a 5% discount by self-reporting their eligibility.

This initiative aims to help low-income families manage their heating bills more affordably this winter.

Customers struggling to pay their utility bills are encouraged to apply for LIHEAP via their local Community Action Agency