Opportunity

Illinois deregulated electrical companies in January 2007, permitting the separation of power supply from transmission and distribution. Ameren Illinois Utilities supplies electricity and provides electrical transmission and delivery service to the Decatur area, but deregulation allows consumers to purchase power from a competitive field of suppliers. Through its Energy Buying Program, the Greater Effingham Chamber of Commerce & Industry helps businesses understand the process of purchasing power on the open market and provides a means for area businesses to reap the benefits of buying in bulk.

Price Stability

The Co-Op pools the purchasing power of regional businesses, allowing members to stabilize their electricity and natural gas costs. By purchasing energy in advance at a set rate, Chamber members remove the uncertainty of fluctuating rates and add predictability to their budget projections.

Credibility

Through the aid and expertise of energy consultant Richard Anderson of CQI Associates, members take advantage of bulk purchasing, while leaving the headache of researching the best prices and providers to the professional. CQI Associates is an industry leader that helps thousands of businesses across the country purchase power each year. They have handled the local Chamber's energy purchasing since 2007.