- Peoples Gas delivers natural gas to all of Chicago, while allowing you to choose your own supplier for pricing flexibility.
- They offer generous rebates for energy-efficient upgrades like furnaces, boilers, and smart thermostats.
- Their mobile app makes it easy to manage your account, pay bills, and get outage updates.
About Peoples Gas
Peoples Gas (officially The Peoples Gas Light & Coke Company) is a major natural gas utility with roots dating back to 1849 in Chicago. Now a subsidiary of WEC Energy Group, it continues to serve Chicago and its northern suburbs under the Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas brands. The company delivers gas to about 830,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers across over 4,300 miles of pipeline. Operating with around 1,500 staff, its mission is to deliver “affordable, reliable and clean energy in an environmentally sustainable manner”.
Peoples Gas Coverage Areas
While Peoples Gas predominately serves Chicago proper, its sister utility, North Shore Gas, extends coverage into the northern suburbs. Here’s a breakdown:
- Core service area: City of Chicago, north, south, central neighborhoods.
- Northern suburbs: Evanston, Skokie, Wilmette, Winnetka, and other North Shore communities (via North Shore Gas).
- Not served: Western suburbs like Oak Park and Cicero, or southern suburbs such as Orland Park and Tinley Park.
This means if you live within Chicago city limits or those northern suburbs, Peoples Gas (via Peoples or North Shore Gas) handles delivery, even if you choose a different retail natural gas provider (RNGP).
Choosing a Retail Natural Gas Provider (RNGP)
Illinois deregulates natural gas supply, so while Peoples handles delivery, you’re free to shop RNGPs for your gas supply. This opens a world of opportunities!
Why Go with an RNGP?
- Rate assurance: Fixed-rate plans shield you from price spikes in the commodity market.
- Flexibility: Some RNGPs offer promotions, green-energy blends, short-term contracts, or usage-based plans.
- Potential cost savings: Introductory rates or value-added perks can lower your bills.
- Green Options: Some suppliers offer renewable natural gas (RNG) or carbon offsets.
Top RNGP Options & What They Offer
Here are some reputable names in Chicagoland:
| Provider | Term Length | Renewable Options | Customer Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Constellation | Varies | Yes | High |
| IGS Energy | Varies | Yes | High |
| Spark Energy | Varies | Not specified | Moderate |
Things to Keep in Mind:
- Rate type: Fixed (predictable) vs index/variable (often market-based).
- Contract duration & exit fees: Early cancellation could cost you.
- Reputation: Reviews matter, how’s their customer service?
- Billing clarity: Some RNGPs combine supply + delivery on one bill; others don’t.
Outage Info & Reporting
Check outage status:
- Use the outage map on Peoples Gas’s site or within its mobile app.
- You’ll see real-time info on impacted areas and estimated restoration times.
To report issues:
- Gas leaks or no-heat emergencies: Call 911 first, then Peoples Gas at 866‑556‑6002 (or through the app).
- Non-emergency gas issues or general outages: Contact Peoples Gas, available 24/7.
App & Online Account Features
The Peoples Gas mobile app (available for Apple iOS & Android) and online “e‑Account” offer a complete suite of self-service tools:
- View bills, usage history, and scheduled payments.
- Start, stop, or transfer service easily.
- Submit meter readings electronically.
- Receive timely outage updates and safety alerts.
- Opt into Budget Billing, direct debit, and paperless statements—all designed to simplify managing your account.
Rebates, Discounts & Incentives
Peoples Gas promotes energy efficiency through attractive programs:
Residential Rebates (City of Chicago homes):
- Heating equipment: High-efficiency furnaces up to $225; boilers up to $500.
- Water heaters: Tankless or indirect heaters up to $150.
- Smart thermostats: $25 rebate.
- Weatherization: Instant discounts on insulation, air sealing, ducting improvements, up to $1,200 when installed by approved contractors.
Commercial & Industrial Rebates:
- Free or subsidized energy assessments.
- Cashback on upgrades like boilers, HVAC equipment, insulation, controls, and more.
All programs have eligibility criteria (new, installed equipment, efficiency specs), so it’s wise to check the specific guidelines.
Energy Sources & Sustainability
Peoples Gas sources its supply from a broad network: firm supply contracts, spot market purchases, owned and contracted storage, and peak-shaving infrastructure via interstate pipelines. This blend ensures both reliability and competitive pricing.
In terms of green energy:
- The parent company, WEC Energy Group, promises net-zero methane emissions in natural gas distribution by 2030, and a 60% cut in Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 2035.
- They’re modernizing infrastructure, replacing old cast-iron pipes, which often leak, with sturdy polyethylene lines. This major replacement program invests $280–300 million annually, with expansion to over $500 million/year projected.
- WEC’s broader ESG plan allocates over $17.7 billion (2022–2026) for renewables, grid upgrades, hydrogen pilots, and clean-energy research.
- Community stewardship includes volunteer work, like planting trees and cleaning parks, and funding for local environmental projects (for example, $1.2M during “Essential Earth Day”).
Other Key Shopper Info
- Safety: If you smell gas, evacuate immediately, call 911, then report to Peoples Gas, it’s not something to delay .
- Billing tools: Budget Billing smooths costs across the seasons; auto-pay and paperless options reduce hassle.
- Customer assistance: Income-qualified households can access programs and support via Project FINANCE programs .
- DIY efficiency tools: online calculators, energy assessments, and planning tools help you save long-term .
A Slice of History: From Gas Lamps to Smart Meters
Founded in 1855 as Peoples Gas Light and Coke Company, they lit Chicago’s street lamps with coal-gas. Fun milestones:
- 1929: Built a pipeline from Texas to Chicago, revolutionizing access to natural gas.
- 2007: Merged into Integrys Energy Group, later acquired by WEC Energy Group (2015).
- Today: A blend of historic reliability and modern tech (like smart meters!).
Why Choose Peoples Gas?
Peoples Gas has a rich history and a strong drive toward a cleaner future. They combine reliable delivery, a helpful app, strong rebate programs, and visible progress on sustainability and safety. Peoples Gas isn’t flashy, it’s your steady, dependable neighbor. With no-deposit setups for most, 24/7 emergency crews, and the freedom to choose your supplier, they make gas easy.
FAQs About Peoples Gas
Can I choose my natural gas supplier?
What payment options are available?
– AutoPay: Avoid late fees with automatic drafts.
– In person: Cash at PayNearMe locations (CVS, 7-Eleven).
– Assistance programs: LIHEAP, Share the Warmth, and payment plans for eligible customers.
Why is my bill higher in winter?
– Lower your thermostat by 1-2° (saves ~3% on bills).
– Seal drafts around windows/doors.
– Use a Budget Billing plan to even out payments.
What’s the difference between Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas?
– North Shore Gas: Covers northern suburbs (Waukegan, Gurnee). Both are under WEC Energy Group but serve different areas.
How do I read my gas meter?
Dial meters: Read left to right (if a needle is between numbers, use the lower one). Submit readings via the app or online to avoid estimated bills.