Kane County looks to implement electric aggregation program
Kane County is steadily moving forward with implementing an electric aggregation program for the unincorporated areas of the county.
The Energy and Environmental Committee unanimously voted Oct. 16 in favor of selecting Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative as the utility consultant to lead the county in seeking a lower electric rate for residents and small businesses in unincorporated Kane County.
NIMEC was one of three companies that responded to Kane County's request for proposals posted earlier this fall for an electric power utility consultant. After establishing electric aggregation programs for more than 100 municipalities throughout Illinois - including several Kane County communities such as the villages of North Aurora and South Elgin - NIMEC is prepared to represent the county in securing the most competitive electric rate from a range of suppliers.
The bidding for a new electric rate could take place in as little as a couple of months, yet Kane County will still have the option to not move forward with the aggregation program if NIMEC is unable to secure an electric rate lower than ComEd's current rate.
"The goal of an electric aggregation program in Kane County is simple," said Kurt Kojzarek, chairman of the Energy and Environmental Committee. "It's all about securing a lower rate on behalf of residents and small businesses, so they can experience real savings on their electric bills."
Even if the program moves forward and a lower rate can be offered to the unincorporated portions of Kane County, residents will still have the option to opt out of the program at no cost and can choose to continue receiving their electricity from ComEd.
However, the county anticipates that the cost savings to residents and small businesses will be favorable and participation in the program will be high.
For details on the electric aggregation program for unincorporated Kane County, call the Kane County Division of Environmental & Water Resources at (630) 208-5118.