(Photo By Flickr User Holly Sparkman)

According to week.com, if the Illinois Commerce Commission approves a new plan, Ameren Illinois customers could pay less on their power bills next year.

Ameren said their proposal would lower monthly bills by $1.70 per month for the average customer.

Craig Nelson, senior vice president, Regulatory Affairs and Financial Services for Ameren Illinois says,

“Prudent cost management, solid project execution and reduced energy supply costs have enabled us to continue modernizing the electric grid with minimal impact on customer rates. We’re pleased to report to the ICC and to our customers that Ameren Illinois electric delivery service rates will go down next year and our combined delivery and supply rates will remain well below the national average.”

The power company said it’s the fifth decrease since a Smart Grid Bill was passed in 2011.

Ameren said they plan to invest another $128.4 million on electrical grid upgrades this year.

To learn more about Ameren Illinois’ electric and gas modernization programs, visit AmerenIllinois.com/focus, Facebook.com/AmerenIllinois, and Twitter @AmerenIllinois.