Energy Assistance Charges & Renewable Energy Charges

Statutory References

Energy Assistance Charge 305 ILCS 20/1 to 20/14
Renewable Energy Resources and Coal Technology Development Assistance Charge 20 ILCS 687/1 to 687/99

Electronic Services

Definition

Each public utility, or alternative retail electric supplier must collect an Energy Assistance Charge monthly from each of its customers for electric or natural gas services delivered by the utility, or supplier.

Each public utility, or alternative retail electric supplier must collect a Renewable Energy Charge monthly from each of its customers for electric or natural gas services delivered by the utility, or supplier.

Note: Electric Cooperatives or Gas Cooperatives and Municipal Electric Utilities or Municipal Gas Utilities may choose to collect and remit the Energy Assistance and Renewable Energy charges but must notify the department in writing.

Tax Rate

Rates are imposed for each of the energy charges depending upon the type of customer and the customer’s electric or natural gas usage during the past calendar year. Use the “Tax Rate Finder” to determine the monthly rates for the Energy Assistance Charge and the Renewable Energy Charge.

Form/Filing & Payment Requirements

Electricity distributor’s return

Form RPU-6, Assistance Charges Return for Electricity Distributors, is due on or before the 20th day of each month following the month for which the return is filed.
Returns may be filed electronically. For more information see WebFile & Pay Assistance Charges for Electricity Distributors.

Natural gas distributor’s return

Form RG-6, Assistance Charges Return for Natural Gas Distributors, is due on or before the 20th day of each month following the month for which the return is filed.
Returns may be filed electronically. For more information see WebFile & Pay Assistance Charges for Natural Gas Distributors.