Illinois utility watchdog groups are balking over electricity deregulation meetings being closed to the public.

Illinois energy companies ComEd and Ameren are changing how they do business. Soon, they’ll buy electricity from energy auctions conducted in New York.

The Illinois Commerce Commission scheduled meetings to prep the companies for the change. They were supposed to be limited to the industry, but watchdog groups may fight for seats at today’s meeting in Rosemont.

David Kolata, head of the Citizens Utility Board, says, “I have registered myself. I’m planning on showing up in Rosemont. I’m not sure if they’re going to let me in. I hope they do, because I think it sends a very bad message to have these energy industry-only meetings for something that’s so crucial to Illinois consumers.”

The ICC says the public may attend a separate meeting later this month.