Kane County is steadily moving forward with implementing an electric aggregation program for the unincorporated areas of the county.

According to a press release from the Kane County Division of Environmental & Water Resources, the County Board’s Energy and Environmental Committee unanimously voted Thursday to select 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.

Among its credentials, NIMEC has helped develop electric aggregation programs for more than 100 municipalities throughout Illinois, including the villages of North Aurora and South Elgin in Kane County. 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,” the press release said.

After the bidding, 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, chair 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, Kane County officials anticipate that the cost savings to residents and small businesses will be favorable and participation in the program will be high.

For additional information on the electric aggregation program for unincorporated Kane County, please contact the Kane County Division of Environmental & Water Resources at 630-208-5118.

SOURCE: Kane County Division of Environmental & Water Resources press release

Read More

• To learn more about the Northern Illinois Municipal Electric Collaborative.
• To learn more about municipal electric aggregation.