Illinois Cold Weather Rule protects citizen’s from electric shut off in the winter

ILLINOIS(KBSI) – The Illinois Commerce Commission is reminding citizens that the cold weather rule is in effect as of December 1, 2024. 

The winter weather rule prohibits utilities from disconnecting eligible customers who use electric or gas as their primary source of home heating.

Illinois Cold Weather Rule states that – no electric or gas public utility shall disconnect service to any residential customer or master-metered apartment building for nonpayment of a bill or deposit where gas or electricity is used as the primary source of space heating equipment at the premises during the period of time from December 1 through and including March 31.

More details on the cold weather rule are listed here.

“Frigid winters are a given in Illinois. The state’s winter weather rule offers peace-of-mind for individuals and families who might otherwise be struggling to stay warm during the coldest months of the year,” said ICC Chairman Doug Scott.

Households struggling to pay their utility bills are encouraged to apply for LIHEAP annually with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity.