The Ameren Illinois Utilities (AmerenCIPS, AmerenCILCO and AmerenIP) support renewable energy through a 2007 state law that requires all investor-owned electric utilities to purchase electricity renewable resources, such as wind and solar. In 2008, 2% of our total load came from renewable sources. In 2009, that amount will be as high as 4%. The required percentage amount will continue to increase in the coming years. The law allows utilities to satisfy the state requirements by purchasing Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) rather than take possession of the actual renewable energy. At this time, taking actual delivery of the renewable energy would likely impose additional costs for us and our customers. Each REC represents the green attributes of 1,000 kilowatthours (kWhs) of electricity from renewable energy resources.
In recent surveys, many customers have said they would like to the option of being able to purchase additional RECs at a modest price. In response, we are asking the Illinois Commerce Commission to approve a Voluntary Green Program, which we refer to as VGP. Each REC represents the green attributes of 1,000 (kWhs) of electricity produced from renewable energy resources. Residential customers will have the option of contributing as little as $3 per month to participate. AIU will use the proceeds from the program to purchase RECs on behalf of program participants. The program is strictly voluntary. Learn more.
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