(The Center Square) – A record-setting rate hike request by an Illinois gas utility is being challenged by consumer advocacy groups. Nicor Gas has filed a $309 million rate hike proposal with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). According to the Public Interest Research Group (PIRG), Nicor last increased rates by $228 million in December 2023. With the 2023 rate hike, Nicor’s charges for gas delivery to customers more than doubled in the span of six years. The ICC is in the midst of a “Future of Gas” proceeding to consider the future of gas utilities in Illinois given the…..