SB 1631

Abstract

Amends the Public Utilities Act. Provides that an alternative retail electric supplier and alternative gas supplier shall: make certain information available on its website; send a separate written notice or electronic mail informing the residential customer of the upcoming change in price or other charge; and not automatically renew a contract with a residential customer at a rate higher than the initial term of the contract or automatically change or renew a fixed contract to a variable rate contract. Provides that all marketing materials shall contain the Historical Price to Compare from the immediately preceding 12 months. Provides, with exceptions, that beginning 90 days after the effective date of the Act, no customer who has received specified financial assistance within the preceding 12 months shall be switched to an alternative retail electric supplier or alternative gas supplier. Provides that beginning January 1, 2021, an alternative retail electric supplier or alternative gas supplier may apply to the Illinois Commerce Commission to offer a savings guarantee plan. Provides that every alternative retail electric supplier and alternative gas supplier shall include specific information on bills issued to a residential customer. Provides that every electric utility or gas utility that provides delivery and supply services shall include specific information on each bill to a residential customer who obtains supply from an alternative retail electric supplier or alternative gas supplier. Amends the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act. Makes changes in provisions concerning electric service provider selection and alternative gas suppliers.