Summary
This 8-K filing from Exelon Corporation (EXC) on June 1, 2007, details significant legislative developments in Illinois concerning electricity rates for its subsidiary, Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd). The primary focus is on House Bill 1750, which proposes to roll back electricity rates to December 29, 2006 levels, provide refunds to residential customers, and limit future rate increases until 2010. This bill has seen progress, with a recent committee approval in the Illinois Senate, but its ultimate passage and effective date remain uncertain and subject to further legislative votes and potential amendments. Exelon and its subsidiaries view the proposed legislation as unconstitutional and have stated their intent to pursue all available legal remedies if enacted. The company, along with other stakeholders, is also engaged in discussions with Illinois legislative leaders to explore alternative solutions that could provide rate relief for customers without resorting to the proposed rate freeze. The outcome of these discussions and the legislative process is unpredictable at this time.
Key Highlights
- 1Illinois House Bill 1750, proposing a rollback of ComEd electricity rates to December 29, 2006, and a refund of excess charges, has advanced to the Illinois Senate Executive Committee, which approved it.
- 2The bill also aims to generally limit rate increases for the electric energy component of bundled service rates for all customers until 2010.
- 3The full Illinois Senate did not vote on House Bill 1750 during the regular session, leaving its passage uncertain.
- 4Passage of the bill requires a supermajority (60%) in the Illinois Senate for immediate effectiveness; otherwise, it could be amended for a 2008 effective date requiring a simple majority, followed by House approval.
- 5Exelon, ComEd, and Exelon Generation Company believe the proposed legislation is unconstitutional and intend to pursue legal remedies if enacted.
- 6Discussions are ongoing with Illinois legislative leaders to explore alternative rate relief measures for customers, including financial assistance programs.
- 7The outcome of the legislative process and any potential alternative solutions remain unpredictable at this filing date.