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SB 2473

UTIL-TIME-OF-USE PRICING

104th Regular Session Introduced by Lakesia Collins and 7 co-sponsors

Illinois bill establishing variable electricity rates based on usage time (peak/off-peak) to incentivize grid management and reduce costs, with equity concerns for lower-income households.

Rule 3-9(a) / Re-referred to Assignments
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Bill Summary · SB 2473

Legislative bill overview

SB 2473 establishes time-of-use (TOU) pricing for utility customers in Illinois, allowing rates to vary based on when electricity is consumed during peak and off-peak hours. The bill aims to incentivize consumers to shift energy usage away from high-demand periods, potentially reducing strain on the electrical grid and lowering overall system costs.

Why is this important

Time-of-use pricing can lower electricity bills for consumers who can shift usage to cheaper off-peak hours, while also improving grid stability by flattening demand curves. However, implementation affects different demographics unequally—lower-income households and those unable to shift usage patterns (elderly, working families) may face higher bills, raising equity concerns about who bears the burden of grid management.

Potential points of contention

  • Regressive impact on vulnerable populations: Elderly, disabled, and low-income households may struggle to shift usage and could see increased utility costs, potentially creating energy poverty
  • Implementation complexity: Utilities must invest in smart meters and billing systems; costs may be passed to consumers, and technical failures could create billing disputes
  • Opt-in vs. mandatory requirements: Ambiguity about whether TOU pricing is automatic or voluntary affects participation rates and effectiveness, with consumer choice advocates potentially opposing mandatory enrollment

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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