Illinois winter heat disconnection rule now in effect

The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) is reminding customers that the state’s winter weather rule is in effect now through March 31.

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

“Illinois winters are known for frigid temperatures and frequent snowfall. The winter weather rule protects customers who might otherwise struggle to stay warm during the coldest months of the year,” ICC Chairman Doug Scott said in a news release from his office.

The winter weather rule protects residential customers from disconnections when temperatures are forecasted to be at or below 32°F, and on days preceding holidays and weekends when the forecast is expected to drop to freezing, the release said.

Residen