UNITED STATES SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                          Washington, DC  20549
                                FORM 10-Q

         [ X ] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
                 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
              For the Quarterly period ended March 31, 1996

                                   OR

         [   ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d)
                 OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
           For the Transition period from ........ to ........


Commission       Registrant; State of Incorporation;   IRS Employer
 File Number        Address; and Telephone Number     Identification No.
  1-8946                       CILCORP Inc.             37-1169387             
                        (An Illinois Corporation)
                      300 Hamilton Blvd, Suite 300                            
                         Peoria, Illinois  61602                                
                             (309) 675-8810 

  1-2732             CENTRAL ILLINOIS LIGHT COMPANY     37-0211050          
                        (An Illinois Corporation)
                           300 Liberty Street
                         Peoria, Illinois  61602
                             (309) 675-8810 

Indicate by check mark whether the Registrants (1) have filed all 
reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities 
Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter 
period that the Registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) 
have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days.           
                       Yes      X             No 

Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's 
classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date: 


CILCORP Inc.    Common stock, no par value,                                 
                shares outstanding at April 30, 1996          13,428,562

CENTRAL ILLINOIS LIGHT COMPANY
                Common stock, no par value,                                    
                shares outstanding and privately                              
                held by CILCORP Inc. at April 30, 1996        13,563,871
                                CILCORP INC.
                                  AND 
                      CENTRAL ILLINOIS LIGHT COMPANY
             FORM 10-Q FOR THE QUARTER ENDED MARCH 31, 1996
                                  INDEX


PART I.     FINANCIAL INFORMATION
                                                              Page No.

Item 1:     Financial Statements 

            CILCORP INC.                 

               Consolidated Balance Sheets                        3-4

               Consolidated Statements of Income                   5

               Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows              6-7
             
            CENTRAL ILLINOIS LIGHT COMPANY

               Consolidated Balance Sheets                        8-9

               Consolidated Statements of Income                  10

               Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows             11-12
             
            Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements             
            CILCORP Inc. and Central Illinois Light Company      13-14

Item 2:     Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
               Condition and Results of Operations 
               CILCORP Inc. and Central Illinois Light Company   15-26

PART II.    OTHER INFORMATION                                      

Item 1:     Legal Proceedings                                     27

Item 4:     Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders   27

Item 5:     Other Information                                    27-30

Item 6:     Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K                      30

Signatures                                                       31-32



                         CILCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES
                          Consolidated Balance Sheets
                                (In thousands)


                                                       March 31,    December 31,
                                                          1996            1995
ASSETS                                                (Unaudited)              
                                                                
Current assets:                                                                 

Cash and temporary cash investments                    $   6,974      $   17,100
Receivables, less reserves of $2,351 and $2,223           73,349          68,479
Accrued unbilled revenue                                  30,578          42,842
Fuel, at average cost                                      6,712          11,596
Materials and supplies, at average cost                   16,274          16,963
Gas in underground storage, at average cost                5,322          13,592
Prepayments and other                                      8,804          14,921
                                                      ----------      ----------
     Total current assets                                148,013         185,493
                                                      ----------      ----------
Investments and other property:                                                 
Investment in leveraged leases                           128,634         127,141
Cash surrender value of company-owned life                                      
   insurance, net of related policy loans of                                    
   $33,211                                                 2,432           1,924
Other investments                                          5,347           5,392
                                                      ----------      ----------
   Total investments and other property                  136,413         134,457
                                                      ----------      ----------
Property, plant and equipment:                                                  
Utility plant, at original cost                                                 
   Electric                                            1,145,424       1,142,945
   Gas                                                   381,561         379,985
                                                      ----------      ----------
                                                       1,526,985       1,522,930
Less - accumulated provision for depreciation            692,863         682,574
                                                      ----------      ----------
                                                         834,122         840,356
Construction work in progress                             43,942          44,749
Plant acquisition adjustments, being amortized                                  
   to 1999                                                 2,464           2,642
Other, net of depreciation                                21,669          22,774
                                                      ----------      ----------
     Total property, plant and equipment                 902,197         910,521
                                                      ----------      ----------
Other assets:                                                                   
Prepaid pension expense                                      536             536
Cost in excess of net assets of acquired                                        
   businesses, net of accumulated amortization of                             
   $4,469 and $4,293                                      23,669          23,845
Other                                                     17,591          21,219
                                                      ----------      ----------
     Total other assets                                   41,796          45,600
                                                      ----------      ----------
     Total assets                                     $1,228,419      $1,276,071
                                                      ==========      ==========

<FN>
The accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an 
integral part of these Balance Sheets.


                         CILCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
                           Consolidated Balance Sheets
                                 (In thousands)



LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY                    March 31,   December 31,
                                                          1996            1995
                                                       (Unaudited)
                                                                 
Current liabilities:                                                   
Current portion of long-term debt                      $   23,048      $   19,052

Notes payable                                              19,070          47,100
Accounts payable                                           33,016          44,550
Accrued taxes                                              12,062           5,035
Accrued interest                                            5,733          10,059
Purchased gas adjustment over-recoveries                    3,904           1,987
Other                                                      12,445          15,259
                                                       ----------      ----------
     Total current liabilities                            109,278         143,042
                                                       ----------      ----------
Long-term debt                                            323,910         344,113
                                                       ----------      ----------
Deferred credits and other liabilities:                                          
Deferred income taxes                                     242,062         241,603
Net regulatory liability of regulated subsidiary           59,558          59,482
Deferred investment tax credit                             24,064          24,485
Other                                                      35,625          35,248
                                                       ----------      ----------
     Total deferred credits                               361,309         360,818
                                                       ----------      ----------
Preferred stock of subsidiary                              66,120          66,120
Stockholders' equity:                                  ----------      ----------
Common stock, no par value; authorized                                           
   50,000,000 shares - outstanding 13,419,895 and                                
   13,335,606 shares                                      182,967         179,330
Retained earnings                                         184,835         182,648
                                                       ----------      ----------
     Total stockholders' equity                           367,802         361,978
                                                       ----------      ----------
     Total liabilities and stockholders' equity        $1,228,419      $1,276,071
                                                       ==========      ==========

<FN>
The accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an integral 
part of these Balance Sheets.



                     CILCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
                    Consolidated Statements of Income
                             (In thousands)*
                               (Unaudited)



                                                                              
                                              Three Months Ended
                                                   March 31,
                                               1996         1995
                                                                    
Revenue:
Electric                                   $76,691      $74,345
Gas                                         78,040       58,882
Environmental and engineering                           
   services                                 20,475       34,674
Other businesses                             2,780        2,686
                                           -------      -------
   Total                                   177,986      170,587
                                                        
Operating expenses:                                     
Fuel for generation and                                 
   purchased  power                         28,194       27,543
Gas purchased for resale                    45,589       29,107
Other operations and maintenance            50,469       59,918
Depreciation and amortization               16,616       15,816
Taxes, other than income taxes              11,638       11,119
                                           -------      -------
   Total                                   152,506      143,503
                                           -------      -------
Fixed charges and other:                                
Interest expense                             6,771        7,456
Preferred stock dividends                               
   of subsidiary                               815          835
Allowance for funds used during                         
   construction                                (35)        (231)
Other                                          945          191
                                            -------      -------
   Total                                     8,496        8,251
                                            -------      -------
Income before income taxes                  16,984       18,833
Income taxes                                 6,590        7,360
                                            -------      -------
   Net income available for                            
      common stockholders                  $10,394      $11,473
                                            =======      =======
Average common shares outstanding           13,366       13,045
                                                         
   Net income per common share             $   .78      $   .88
                                                        
   Dividends per common share              $  .615      $  .615
*Except per share amounts                               

<FN>
The accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements 
are an integral part of these statements.
 
   


                        CILCORP INC. AND SUBSIDIARIES 
                    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows 
                                (In thousands)
                                  (Unaudited)
 

                                                     Three Months Ended
                                                           March 31,
                                                      1996            1995
                                                             
 Cash flows from operating activities:                                 
Net income before preferred dividends                $11,209     $ 12,308
                                                     --------    --------
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash                  
  provided by operating activities:                              
  Non-cash lease & investment income                  (1,493)     (1,550)
  Depreciation and amortization                       16,616      15,816
  Deferred income taxes, investment tax credit and               
    regulatory liability of subsidiary, net              114      (1,517)
Changes in operating assets and liabilities:                     
  Decrease (increase) in accounts receivable and                 
    accrued unbilled revenue                           7,394      (4,057)
  Decrease in inventories                             13,843      10,978
  Decrease in accounts payable                       (11,534)    (15,951)
  Increase in accrued taxes                            7,027       7,257
  Decrease in other assets                             9,921       2,703
  (Decrease) increase in other liabilities            (4,846)      1,152
                                                     --------    --------
  Total adjustments                                   37,042      14,831
                                                     --------    --------
  Net cash provided by operating activities           48,251      27,139
                                                     --------    --------
Cash flows from investing activities:                            
Additions to plant                                    (7,938)    (16,790)
Proceeds from sale of long-term investments               --         500
Other                                                   (817)     (1,740)
                                                     --------    --------
     Net cash used in investing activities            (8,755)    (18,030)
                                                     --------    --------
Cash flows from financing activities:                            
Net (decrease) increase in short-term debt           (28,030)     16,200
Repayment of long-term debt                          (16,207)    (18,000)
Common dividends paid                                 (8,207)     (8,017)
Preferred dividends paid                                (815)       (835)
Proceeds from issuance of stock                        3,637       1,266
                                                     --------    --------
     Net cash used in financing activities           (49,622)     (9,386)
                                                     --------    -------
Net decrease in cash and temporary cash                          
  investments                                        (10,126)       (277)
Cash and temporary cash investments at beginning                 
  of year                                             17,100       1,604
                                                     --------    -------
Cash and temporary cash investments at end of                    
  quarter                                            $ 6,974     $ 1,327
                                                     =======     =======
 
Supplemental disclosures of cash flow information:               
                                                                 
Cash paid during the period for:                                 
   Interest                                          $11,702    $11,082
                                                                 
   Income Taxes                                      $   500    $ 1,179

<FN>
The accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an 
integral part of these statements.



                     CENTRAL ILLINOIS LIGHT COMPANY
                      Consolidated Balance Sheets 
                             (In thousands)

                                                   March 31,  December 31,
ASSETS                                                1996       1995  
                                                  (Unaudited)
                                                        
Utility plant, at original cost:                                        

  Electric                                        $1,145,424  $1,142,945
  Gas                                                381,561     379,985
                                                  ----------  ----------
                                                   1,526,985   1,522,930
  Less - accumulated provision for depreciation      692,863     682,574
                                                  ----------  ----------
                                                     834,122     840,356
Construction work in progress                         43,942      44,749
Plant acquisition adjustments, net of                                   
  amortization                                         2,464       2,642
                                                  ----------  ----------
    Total utility plant                              880,528     887,747
                                                  ----------  ----------
Other property and investments:                                         
Cash surrender value of company-owned life                              
  insurance (net of related policy loans of                             
  $33,211)                                             2,432       1,924
Other                                                  1,619       1,623
                                                  ----------  ----------
    Total other property and investments               4,051       3,547
                                                  ----------  ----------
Current assets:                                                         
Cash and temporary cash investments                    5,433      16,556
Receivables, less reserves of $761 and $650           52,782      42,312
Accrued unbilled revenue                              19,478      28,891
Fuel, at average cost                                  6,712      11,596
Materials and supplies, at average cost               16,274      16,541
Gas in underground storage, at average cost            5,320      13,592
Prepaid taxes                                             --       7,978
Other                                                  4,254      10,300
                                                  ----------  ----------
    Total current assets                             110,253     147,766
                                                  ----------  ----------
Deferred debits:                                                        
Unamortized loss on reacquired debt                    5,915       6,029
Unamortized debt expense                               2,335       2,374
Prepaid pension cost                                     536         536
Other                                                  8,061      11,992
                                                  ----------  ----------
    Total deferred debits                             16,847      20,931
                                                  ----------  ----------
Total assets                                      $1,011,679  $1,059,991
                                                  ==========  ==========  

<FN>
The accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an 
integral part of these Balance Sheets.






                      CENTRAL ILLINOIS LIGHT COMPANY
                       Consolidated Balance Sheets 
                              (In thousands)
                                      

                                                  March 31,  December 31,
CAPITALIZATION AND LIABILITIES                      1996         1995 
                                                  (Unaudited)
                                                         
Capitalization:                                                          

Common shareholder's equity:                                             
   Common stock, no par value; authorized                                     
  20,000,000 shares; outstanding 13,563,871                              
     shares                                         $ 185,661   $ 185,661
   Retained earnings                                  145,710     140,814
                                                   ----------  ----------
        Total common shareholder's equity             331,371     326,475
Preferred stock without mandatory redemption           44,120      44,120
Preferred stock with mandatory redemption              22,000      22,000
Long-term debt                                        278,407     298,397
                                                   ----------  ----------
        Total capitalization                          675,898     690,992
                                                   ----------  ----------
Current liabilities:                                                     
Current maturities of long-term debt                   20,000      16,000
Notes payable                                              --      24,600
Accounts payable                                       30,905      40,483
Accrued taxes                                           8,352       5,917
Accrued interest                                        5,236       8,508
Purchased gas adjustment over-recoveries                3,904       1,987
Level payment plan                                         --       1,870
Other                                                   5,095       6,418
                                                   ----------  ----------
        Total current liabilities                      73,492     105,783
                                                   ----------  ----------
Deferred liabilities and credits:                                        
Accumulated deferred income taxes                     143,571     144,378
Regulatory liability, net                              59,558      59,482
Investment tax credits                                 24,064      24,485
Capital lease obligation                                2,927       3,025
Other                                                  32,169      31,846
                                                   ----------  ----------
        Total deferred liabilities and credits        262,289     263,216
                                                   ----------  ----------
Total capitalization and liabilities               $1,011,679  $1,059,991
                                                   ==========  ==========

<FN>
The accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an 
integral part of these Balance Sheets.





                          CENTRAL ILLINOIS LIGHT COMPANY
                         Consolidated Statements of Income
                                  (In thousands)
                                    (Unaudited)

                                                    Three Months Ended
                                                         March 31, 
                                                     1996          1995     
                                                                  
Operating revenues:                                             
Electric                                          $ 76,691      $ 74,345
Gas                                                 78,040        58,882
                                                  --------      --------
            Total operating revenues               154,731       133,227
                                                  --------      --------
Operating expenses:                                             
Cost of fuel                                        25,932        24,760
Cost of gas                                         45,589        29,107
Purchased power                                      2,262         2,784
Other operation and maintenance                     26,702        27,315
Depreciation and amortization                       15,054        14,146
Income taxes                                         8,614         7,515
Other taxes                                         10,386         9,717
                                                  --------      --------
            Total operating expenses               134,539       115,344
                                                  --------      --------
Operating income                                    20,192        17,883
                                                  --------      --------
Other income and deductions:                                    
Cost of equity funds capitalized                        19            --
Company-owned life insurance, net                     (206)         (191)
Other, net                                             (60)          (16)
                                                  --------      --------
            Total other income and (deductions)       (247)         (207)
                                                  --------      --------
Income before interest expenses                     19,945        17,676
                                                  --------      --------
Interest expenses:                                              
Interest on long-term debt                           5,304         4,808
Cost of borrowed funds capitalized                     (16)         (231)
Other                                                  739         1,017
                                                  --------      --------
            Total interest expenses                  6,027         5,594
                                                  --------      --------
Net income                                          13,918        12,082
                                                  --------      --------
Dividends on preferred stock                           815           835
                                                  --------      --------
Net income available for common stock             $ 13,103      $ 11,247
                                                  ========      ========

<FN>
The accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an 
integral part of these statements.
                



                       CENTRAL ILLINOIS LIGHT COMPANY
                    Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows
                               (In thousands)
                                 (Unaudited)

                                                      Three Months Ended
                                                           March 31, 
                                                       1996         1995 
                                                                 
Cash flows from operating activities:                           
Net income before preferred dividends              $  13,918    $ 12,082
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash                 
  provided by operating activities:                             
  Depreciation and amortization                       15,232      14,324
  Deferred taxes, investment tax credits and                    
     regulatory liability, net                        (1,152)     (1,509)
  Increase in accounts receivable                    (10,470)     (4,515)
  Decrease in fuel, materials and supplies,                
     and gas in underground storage                   13,424      10,978
  Decrease in unbilled revenue                         9,414       5,537
  Decrease in accounts payable                        (9,577)    (15,897)
  Increase (decrease) in accrued taxes and                      
  interest                                              (837)      1,060
  Capital lease payments                                 161         120
  Decrease in other current assets                    14,025       5,633
  Increase (decrease)in other current liabilities     (1,275)         41
  (Increase) decrease in other non-current                      
     assets                                            4,598      (1,055)
  Increase in other non-current liabilities              580       1,939
                                                     --------     --------
     Net cash provided by operating activities        48,041      28,738
                                                     --------     --------
Cash flows from investing activities:                           
  Capital expenditures                                (7,852)    (15,150)
  Cost of equity funds capitalized                       (19)         --
  Other                                               (1,509)     (1,801)
                                                     --------     --------
     Net cash used in investing activities            (9,380)    (16,951)
                                                     --------     --------
Cash flows from financing activities:                           
  Common dividends paid                               (8,208)     (8,017)
  Preferred dividends paid                              (815)       (835)
  Long-term debt issued                                   --         (34)
  Retirement of long-term debt                       (16,000)         --
  Payments on capital lease obligation                  (161)       (120)
  Decrease in short-term borrowing                   (24,600)     (2,800)
                                                     --------     --------
     Net cash used in financing activities           (49,784)    (11,806)
                                                     --------     --------
Net decrease in cash and temporary cash                         
  investments                                        (11,123)        (19)
                                                                
Cash and temporary cash investments at beginning                
  of year                                             16,556         629
                                                     --------     --------
Cash and temporary cash investments at March 31     $  5,433     $   610
                                                     ========     ========




Supplemental disclosures of cash flow                           
  information:                                                  
                                                                
Cash paid during the period for:                                
                                                                
  Interest (net of cost of borrowed funds                    
    capitalized)                                    $  9,400     $ 8,903
  Income taxes                                            --       1,479

<FN>
The accompanying Notes to the Consolidated Financial Statements are an 
integral part of these statements.


             CILCORP INC. AND CENTRAL ILLINOIS LIGHT COMPANY
               NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                               (Unaudited)

NOTE 1.  Introduction

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of CILCORP 
Inc. (CILCORP or Company), Central Illinois Light Company (CILCO), 
Environmental Science & Engineering, Inc. (ESE), QST Enterprises Inc. 
(QST) and CILCORP's other subsidiaries after elimination of significant 
intercompany transactions.   CILCORP owns 100% of the common stock of 
CILCO.  All of the other first-tier subsidiaries are wholly-owned by 
CILCORP.  The consolidated financial statements of CILCO include the 
accounts of CILCO and its subsidiaries, CILCO Exploration and 
Development Company and CILCO Energy Corporation.

The accompanying unaudited consolidated financial statements have been 
prepared according to the rules and regulations of the Securities and 
Exchange Commission.  Although CILCORP believes the disclosures are 
adequate to make the information presented not misleading, these 
consolidated financial statements should be read with the consolidated 
financial statements and related notes forming a part of the Company's 
1995 Annual Report on Form 10-K.

In the Company's opinion, the consolidated financial statements 
furnished reflect all normal and recurring adjustments necessary for a 
fair presentation of the results of operations for the periods 
presented.  Operating results for interim periods are not necessarily 
indicative of operating results to be expected for the year or of the 
Company's future financial condition.  

NOTE 2.   Gas Pipeline Supplier Transition Costs

CILCO is subject to various Federal Energy Regulatory Commission 
(FERC) orders and settlements related to the transition to a more 
competitive natural gas industry.  FERC Order 636 unbundled the sale, 
transportation and storage functions of interstate gas pipelines, and 
also allows the pipelines to recover prudently incurred transition 
costs from gas distribution companies.  FERC Orders 500 and 528 allow 
interstate gas pipelines to bill gas distribution companies for take-
or-pay and other charges related to the transition to a more 
competitive gas industry.  During the three months ended March 31, 
1996, CILCO has paid $.4 million for interstate pipeline transition 
costs.  These costs have been, or will be, recovered from CILCO's 
customers through its purchased gas adjustment clause (PGA).  Since 
these costs are recoverable from CILCO's customers, management does 
not expect gas pipeline supplier transition costs to materially 
impact CILCO's financial position or results of operations.

CILCO has recorded a regulatory asset and a corresponding liability 
of $2.6 million on its Balance Sheets as of March 31, 1996, of which 
$1.1 million will be due in one year.  The remaining $1.5 million 
represents the minimum amount of the estimated range of such future 

direct billings from pipelines which CILCO expects to receive related 
to take-or-pay and other transition costs.  



NOTE 3.  Contingencies

Neither CILCORP, CILCO, nor any of their affiliates has been 
identified as a potentially responsible party (PRP) under federal or 
state environmental laws.  

CILCO continues to investigate and/or monitor four former gas 
manufacturing plant sites (Sites A, B, C and D) located within 
CILCO's present gas service territory.  The purpose of these studies 
is to determine if waste materials, principally coal tar, are 
present, whether such waste materials constitute an environmental or 
health risk and if CILCO is responsible for the remediation of any 
remaining waste materials at those sites.  CILCO previously operated 
plants at Sites A, B and C and currently owns Sites A and B.  In 
cooperation with the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency, CILCO 
completed remedial action in 1991 at Site A, at a cost of $3.3 
million.  In 1994, CILCO investigated Site B to define the extent of 
waste materials on site.  A risk assessment for Site B is currently 
underway.  During the first quarter of 1996 CILCO has paid 
approximately $146,000 to outside parties to investigate and/or test 
Sites A and B.  CILCO has not yet formulated a remediation plan for 
Site C.  Until more detailed site specific testing has been 
completed, CILCO cannot determine the ultimate extent or cost of any 
remediation of Site C.  CILCO does not currently own Site D and has 
not yet determined the extent, if any, of its remediation 
responsibility for this site.

CILCO expects to spend approximately $390,000 for site monitoring, 
legal fees and feasibility studies in 1996.  A $4 million liability 
and a corresponding regulatory asset are recorded on the Balance 
Sheets representing the minimum amount of coal tar investigation and 
remediation costs CILCO expects to incur.  Coal tar remediation costs 
incurred through March 1996 have been deferred on the Balance Sheets, 
net of amounts recovered from customers.  

Through March 31, 1996, CILCO has recovered approximately $4.9 
million in coal tar remediation costs from its customers through a 
gas rate rider approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC).  
Currently, that rider allows recovery of coal tar costs in the year 
they are incurred.  Under these circumstances, management believes 
that the cost of coal tar remediation will not have a material 
adverse effect on CILCO's financial position or results of 
operations.

NOTE 4.  Commitments
In August 1990, CILCO entered into a firm, wholesale power purchase 
agreement with Central Illinois Public Service Company (CIPS).  This 

agreement, which expires in 1998, provides for an initial purchase of 30 
megawatts (MW) of capacity, increasing to 90 MW in 1997.  CILCO can 
increase purchases to a maximum of 100 MW during the contract period, 
provided CIPS then has the additional capacity available.

In March 1995, CILCO and CIPS renegotiated a November 1992 limited-term 
power agreement.  This renegotiated agreement, which expires in May 
2009, provides for CILCO to purchase 150 MW of CIPS' capacity from June 
1998 through May 2002, and 50 MW from June 2002 through May 2009.  This 
renegotiated agreement is subject to the ICC's final approval of CILCO's 
1995 electric least cost energy plan, which has been revised to include 
the terms of this agreement.  ICC approval is expected in May 1996.


                 MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF
              FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

CILCORP Inc. (CILCORP or the Company) is the parent of three core 
operating businesses, Central Illinois Light Company (CILCO), 
Environmental Science & Engineering, Inc. (ESE) and QST Enterprises Inc. 
(QST).  CILCORP also has two other first-tier subsidiaries, CILCORP 
Investment Management Inc. (CIM), and CILCORP Ventures Inc. (CVI), whose 
operations, combined with those of the holding company (Holding Company) 
itself, are collectively referred to herein as Other Businesses.

CILCO, the primary business subsidiary, is an electric and gas utility 
serving customers in central and east central Illinois.  CILCO's 
financial condition and results of operations are currently the 
principal factors affecting the Company's financial condition and 
results of operations.  

ESE is a national environmental consulting, engineering and analytical 
services firm serving governmental, industrial and commercial customers.  
ESE, through its subsidiaries, also acquires environmentally impaired 
property for remediation and resale. 

QST, formed in December 1995, provides energy and energy services -- 
buying, managing and controlling energy -- for a wide variety of 
customers.  QST is also engaged in the business of fiberoptic 
communication through one of its wholly-owned subsidiaries.

CIM invests in a diversified portfolio of long-term financial 
investments which currently includes leveraged leases, energy-related 
projects and affordable residential housing.  

CVI invests in ventures in environmental services, energy, biotechnology 
and health care.

                      Capital Resources & Liquidity
Declaration of dividends by CILCORP is at the discretion of the Board of 
Directors.  CILCORP's ability to declare and pay dividends is contingent 
upon its receipt of dividend payments from its subsidiaries, business 
conditions, earnings and the financial condition of the Company.  The 
Company believes that internal and external sources of capital which 
are, or are expected to be, available to the Holding Company and its 
subsidiaries will be adequate to meet the Company's capital expenditures 
program, finance acquisitions, pay its financial obligations, meet 
working capital needs and retire debt as it matures.

CILCORP
Short-term borrowing capability is available to the Company for 
additional cash requirements.  CILCORP's Board of Directors has 
authorized it to borrow up to $50 million on a short-term basis.  On 
March 31, 1996, CILCORP had committed bank lines of credit of $50 
million, of which $18.7 million was outstanding.  

During the first quarter of 1996, CILCORP issued 84,289 shares of common 
stock at an average price of $43.15 per share through the CILCORP Inc. 
Automatic Reinvestment and Stock Purchase Plan (DRIP) and the CILCO 
Employees' Savings Plan (ESP).  Depending on market conditions, CILCORP 
may issue additional shares of common stock through the DRIP, the ESP or 
other stock offerings.  The proceeds from newly issued stock will be 
used to retire CILCORP debt, to meet working capital and capital 
expenditure requirements at QST and for other corporate purposes.

At March 31, 1996, CILCORP had $45 million of medium-term notes 
outstanding.  CILCORP may issue up to $75 million under its current 
medium-term note program. CILCORP may issue additional notes in the 
future under this program to retire maturing debt and to provide funds 
for other corporate purposes.

CILCO

Capital expenditures totaled $7.9 million for the three months ended 
March 31, 1996.  Capital expenditures are anticipated to be approximately  
$43.8 million for the remainder of 1996 which includes approximately 
$2.4 million for the installation of a communication network in Peoria, 
Illinois.  Capital expenditures for the years 1997 and 1998 are estimated to 
be $49.7 million and $49.5 million, respectively.

Currently, CILCO does not plan to issue long-term debt during 1996.  CILCO 
intends to finance its 1996 and 1997 capital expenditures with funds provided 
by operations.

At March 31, 1996, CILCO had committed bank lines of credit aggregating 
$30 million, all of which were unused.  These lines of credit are used to 
support CILCO's issuance of commercial paper.  CILCO expects these bank lines 
will remain unused through 1996.  CILCO had no commercial paper outstanding 
at March 31, 1996, but expects to issue commercial paper periodically 
throughout the remainder of 1996.

In addition to declaring a regular common dividend, CILCO's Board of 
Directors declared a special $10 million dividend at the April 1996 Board 
Meeting.  These dividends were paid to CILCORP, the sole common shareholder 
of CILCO.

ESE

For the quarter ended March 31, 1996, ESE's capital expenditures were 
approximately $800,000, which included $700,000 to acquire land through 
its subsidiary, ESE Land Corporation, for remediation and resale.  
Capital expenditures for the remainder of 1996 are budgeted to be 
approximately $7.9 million, which includes $7 million  to acquire land 
for remediation and resale.

At March 31, 1996, ESE had borrowings of $20 million from CILCORP and 
advances of $2.7 million to CILCORP.  ESE also has a $15 million line of 
credit with CILCORP.  At March 31, 1996, all of this line of credit was 
unused.  ESE has a $10 million bank line of credit, of which $4.4 
million was outstanding at March 31, 1996, to collaterize performance 
bonds issued in connection with ESE's projects.  ESE expects to finance 
its capital expenditures and working capital needs during 1996 with a 
combination of funds generated internally and periodic short-term 
borrowings from the Holding Company.

QST

Capital expenditures for QST are expected to be approximately 
$3.8 million for 1996.  This includes $3.6 million for QST 
Communications Inc., a subsidiary of QST, for construction of a 
fiberoptic communication loop in the Peoria area.  QST expects to 
finance new investments and working capital needs during 1996 with funds 
provided by CILCORP.

CIM

At March 31, 1996, CIM had outstanding debt of $25.7 million, consisting 
of $22.3 million borrowed from CILCORP and $3.4 million borrowed from 
external sources.  CIM expects to finance new investments and working 
capital needs during 1996 with a combination of funds generated 
internally and periodic short-term borrowings from CILCORP.
                          Results Of Operations

Overview

The following table summarizes net income of CILCO, ESE, QST and Other 
Businesses for the three months ended March 31, 1996 and 1995.


                                              Three Months Ended
                                                   March 31,
                                             1996             1995
                                                (In thousands)
                                                 (Unaudited)
                                                     
Core businesses:                                                             
CILCO                                                                 
   Electric operating income              $10,085          $ 9,065   
   Gas operating income                    10,107            8,818
                                          -------          -------
      Total utility operating income       20,192           17,883

   Utility other income and deductions     (6,274)          (5,801)
   Preferred stock dividends of CILCO        (815)            (835)
                                           -------          -------
      Total utility net income             13,103           11,247
                                                       
ESE                                                     
   ESE net income (loss)                   (1,972)             377
                                                         
QST                                                      
   QST net loss                              (446)              --
                                           -------          -------
      Total core business income           10,685           11,624
                                                         
                                                        
Other businesses:                                        
   Other businesses net loss                 (291)           (151)
                                           -------          -------
                                                         
                                                        
   Consolidated net income available                     
      to common shareholders              $10,394          $11,473
                                          =======          =======




CILCO Electric Operations

The following table summarizes the components of CILCO electric 
operating income for the three months ended March 31, 1996 and 1995:


                                         Three Months Ended
Components of Electric                        March 31,
  Operating Income                          1996        1995
                                             (In thousands)
                                                        
Revenue:                                                       

Electric retail                            $73,256      $72,933
Sales for resale                             3,435        1,412
                                           -------      -------
     Total revenue                          76,691       74,345
                                           -------      -------
Cost of sales:                                                 
Cost of fuel                                25,932       24,760
Purchased power expense                      2,262        2,784
Revenue taxes                                3,645        3,429
                                           -------      -------
     Total cost of sales                    31,839       30,973
                                           -------      -------
        Gross margin                        44,852       43,372
                                           -------      -------
Operating expenses:                                            
Other operation and maintenance             18,737       19,082
Depreciation and amortization               10,766       10,213
Income and other taxes                       5,264        5,012
                                           -------      -------
     Total operating expenses               34,767       34,307
                                           -------      -------
     Electric operating income             $10,085      $ 9,065
                                           =======      =======



Electric gross margin and retail sales volumes increased 3% and 1%, 
respectively, for the three months ended March 31, 1996, compared to the 
same period in 1995. A 7% increase in residential sales and a 6% 
increase in commercial sales offset a 6% decrease in industrial sales.  
Residential and commercial sales were higher primarily due to a 13% 
increase in heating degree days compared to the same period in 1995.  
The change in industrial sales resulted primarily from lower demand by 
several large industrial customers.  

The overall level of business activity in CILCO's service territory and 
weather conditions are expected to continue to be the primary factors 
affecting electric sales in the near term.  CILCO's electric sales may 
be affected in the long-term by deregulation and increased competition 
in the electric utility industry (see Part II. Item 5: Other 
Information, Electric Competition).

Sales for resale increased during the first quarter of 1996, due to 
higher demand for electricity from neighboring utilities.  Sales for 
resale vary based on the energy requirements of neighboring utilities, 
CILCO's available capacity for bulk power sales and the price of power 
available for sale.  CILCO expects increased competition in the market 
for sales for resale and purchased power. 

Substantially all of CILCO's electric generating capacity is coal-fired.  
The cost of fuel increased 5% in the first quarter of 1996, compared to 
the same period in 1995, due to a 12% increase in electric generation, 
partially offset by an 8% reduction in the cost of coal burned.

Purchased power decreased for the three months ended March 31, 1996, 
compared to the same period in 1995.  Purchased power expense varies 
based on CILCO's need for energy and the price of power available for 
purchase.  CILCO makes use of purchased power when it is economical to 
do so and when required during maintenance outages at CILCO plants.  
Costs and savings realized from the purchase of power are passed through 
to CILCO's customers via the fuel adjustment clause (FAC).  The FAC 
allows CILCO to pass increases or decreases in the cost of fuel through 
to customers.  

Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased 2% for the three 
months ended March 31, 1996, compared to the corresponding period in 
1995, primarily due to decreased employee salaries, pension expense, 
injury and damage claims and tree trimming expenses.  Increases in 
outside services and employee benefits partially offset the decrease for 
the first quarter of 1996.


Depreciation and amortization expense increased 5%, reflecting additions 
and replacements of utility plant at costs in excess of the original 
cost of the property retired, and the addition of CILCO's new customer 
information system in October 1995.

Income and other tax expense increased primarily due to higher pre-tax 
operating income.

CILCO Gas Operations

The following table summarizes the components of CILCO gas operating 
income for the three months ended March 31, 1996 and 1995:

                                     Three Months Ended
Components of Gas Operating Income                 March 31,
                                               1996        1995       
                                               (In thousands)
                                                     
Revenue:                                                          

Sale of gas                                   $75,290      $56,168
Transportation services                         2,750        2,714
                                              -------      -------
     Total revenue                             78,040       58,882
                                              -------      -------
Cost of sales:                                                    
Cost of gas                                    45,589       29,107
Revenue taxes                                   3,678        3,114
                                              -------      -------
     Total cost of sales                       49,267       32,221
                                              -------      -------
          Gross margin                         28,773       26,661
                                              -------      -------
Operating expenses:                                               
Other operation and maintenance                 7,965        8,233
Depreciation and amortization                   4,288        3,933
Income and other taxes                          6,413        5,677
                                              -------      -------
     Total operating expenses                  18,666       17,843
                                              -------      -------
     Gas operating income                     $10,107      $ 8,818
                                              =======      =======



Gas gross margin increased 8% for the quarter ended March 31, 1996, 
compared to the same period in 1995, primarily due to increased sales to 
residential and commercial customers.  Residential sales increased 11% 
and commercial sales increased 14% for the first quarter of 1996.  The 
increases in residential and commercial sales were primarily due to 
cooler winter weather.  Heating degree days were 13% higher compared to 
the same period in 1995.  The overall level of business activity in 
CILCO's service territory and weather conditions are expected to 
continue to be the primary factors affecting gas sales in the near term.  
In the long term, CILCO natural gas sales may be affected by further 
deregulation in the natural gas industry.

Revenue from gas transportation services increased 1% for the quarter 
ended March 31, 1996, compared to the same period in 1995.  Revenue 
increased primarily due to peak-day overrun penalties incurred by 
transportation customers during the quarter ended March 31, 1996.  The 
increase was offset by a 2% decrease in transportation sales volumes for 
the quarter.

The cost of gas increased 57% for the quarter ended March 31, 1996, 
compared to the same quarter of 1995.  This increase was principally due 
to increased sales and higher natural gas prices from CILCO's suppliers.  
The higher natural gas prices, which accounted for the majority of the 
34% increase in gas retail revenue, were passed through to CILCO's gas 
customers via the PGA.  The PGA is the mechanism used to pass increases 
or decreases in the cost of natural gas through to customers.

Other operation and maintenance expenses decreased 3% for the three 
months ended March 31, 1996, compared to the corresponding period in 
1995, due to a decrease in salaries and injury and damage claims.  These 
decreases were partially offset by increases in employee benefits and 
outside service expenses.

Depreciation and amortization expense increased 9% for the quarter ended 
March 31, 1996 compared to the same period in 1995, reflecting additions 
and replacements of utility plant at costs in excess of the original 
cost of the property retired, and the addition of CILCO's new customer 
information system in October 1995.

Income and other taxes expense increased for the quarter ended March 31, 
1996, primarily due to higher pre-tax operating income.   

CILCO Other Income and Deductions and Interest Expense

The following table summarizes other income and deductions and 
interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 1996 and 1995:


                                        Three Months Ended
Components of Other Income and                        March 31,
   Deductions and Interest Expense               1996          1995       
                                                   (In thousands)
                                                             
Net interest expense                         $(5,914)        $(5,814)      
Income taxes                                      712            565
Other                                         (1,072)           (552)
                                              -------         -------
      Other income (deductions)              $(6,274)        $(5,801)
                                              =======         =======



Interest expense increased primarily as a result of a higher long-term 
debt balance during the first quarter of 1996, compared to the same 
period in 1995.  Other deductions increased primarily due to increased 
corporate contributions and a loss on the sale of a parcel of land at 
the Duck Creek generating site.


ESE Operations
                                                   
The following table summarizes the components of ESE's results for the 
three months ended March 31, 1996 and 1995:



Components of ESE Net Income (Loss)
                                          1996           1995
                                               (In thousands)
                                                    
Environmental and engineering                                    
   services revenue                      $20,475          $34,674
Direct non-labor project costs             5,666           13,960
                                         -------          -------
   Net revenue                            14,809           20,714
                                         -------          -------
Expenses:                                                        
Direct salaries and other costs            9,407           10,148
General & administrative                   6,749            7,808
Depreciation and amortization              1,332            1,443
                                         -------          -------
   Operating expenses                     17,488           19,399
                                         -------          -------
Interest expense                             396              511
                                         -------          -------
   Income (loss) before income taxes      (3,075)             804
                                                                 
Income taxes                              (1,103)             427
                                         -------          -------
   ESE net income (loss)                 $(1,972)         $   377
                                         =======          =======



ESE's results have fluctuated from quarter to quarter since its 
acquisition in 1990.  Such fluctuations may be expected to continue.  
Factors influencing such variations include:  project delays, which may 
be caused by regulatory agency approvals or client considerations; the 
level of subcontractor services; and weather, which may limit the amount 
of time ESE professionals have in the field.  Accordingly, results for 
any one quarter are not necessarily indicative of results for any other 
quarter or for the year.

ESE incurs substantial direct project costs from the use of 
subcontractors on projects.  These costs are passed directly through to 
ESE's clients.  As a result, ESE measures its operating performance on 
the basis of net revenues, which are determined by deducting such direct 
project costs from gross revenues.

Net revenues were 29% lower for the quarter ended March 31, 1996 
compared to the same period in 1995.  This decrease in net revenue is 
due to a decrease in net revenue for both the consulting and laboratory 
operations during the first quarter of 1996.  As legislatures debate 
both environmental funding and regulations, industry clients have 
delayed initiating projects.  Government projects are under strict 
fiscal limits which impact ESE work levels in this area.  Net revenues 
for the first quarter of 1996 were also impacted by inclement weather, 
resulting in project interruptions. The first quarter of 1995 had 
favorable weather conditions resulting in uninterrupted project 
activity.  Also, net revenues for the first quarter of 1996 were 
adversely impacted by intense competition in the laboratory marketplace 
which has resulted in reduced profit margins beginning in late 1995 and 
continuing into the first quarter of 1996.

Direct salaries and other expenses include the cost of professional and 
technical staff and other costs billable to customers.  These costs 
include salaries and related fringe benefits, including employer-paid 
medical and dental insurance, payroll taxes, paid time off, and 401(k) 
contributions.  Direct salaries and other costs decreased by 7% in the 
first quarter of 1996, compared to the corresponding period in 1995.  
This decrease is primarily due to a decrease in the number of technical 
staff.

General and administrative expenses include non-billable employee time 
devoted to marketing, proposals, supervision, and professional 
development; supplies expenses; and corporate administrative expenses.  
General and administrative expenses decreased 14% in the first quarter 
of 1996 compared to the same period in 1995.  This decrease is due to 
lower general and administrative salary expense, lower overall payroll 
benefit expense, and cost controls which have reduced overhead expenses.  
Due to the labor-intensive nature of ESE's business, ESE has the ability 
to adjust staffing levels to recognize changing business conditions.  
ESE had 972 full-time equivalent employees at March 31, 1996 compared to 
1,223 at March 31, 1995.

QST Operations

The following table summarizes QST's results for the three months ended 
March 31, 1996:



Components of QST Net Loss
                                                 Three Months Ended
                                                      March 31,
                                                    1996        1995
                                                    (In thousands)
                                                       
Revenue:                                         $    --     $    --
                                                 -------     -------
                                                           
Expenses:                                                  
   General and Administrative                        786          --
   Operating expenses                              1,486       1,155
   Depreciation and amortization                      47          49
   Interest expense                                1,340       1,592
   Income and other taxes                            198          41
                                                 -------     -------
      Total expenses                               3,071       2,837
                                                 -------     -------
                                                           
      Other businesses net loss                  $ (291)     $ (151)
                                                 =======     =======
                                                           



Operating expenses increased for the first quarter of 1996, compared to 
the first quarter of 1995, primarily due to higher operating expenses 
related to the leveraged lease investment portfolio.

Interest expense decreased in 1996 as a result of a decrease in long-
term debt outstanding.

Income and other taxes were higher in the first quarter of 1996, 
compared to the first quarter of 1995, primarily due to greater pre-tax 
income and an adjustment to an income tax reserve in the first quarter 
of 1996.


PART II.  OTHER INFORMATION

Item 1:  Legal Proceedings

Reference is made to "Environmental Matters" under "Item 1.  Business" 
in the Company's 1995 Annual Report on Form 10-K (the "1995 Form 10-K"), 
and "Note 2. Gas Pipeline Supplier Transition Costs" and "Note 3. 
Contingencies," herein, for certain pending legal proceedings and 
proceedings known to be contemplated by governmental authorities.  

The Company and its subsidiaries are subject to certain claims and 
lawsuits in connection with work performed in the ordinary course of 
their businesses.  Except as otherwise disclosed or referred to in this 
section, in the opinion of management, all such claims currently pending 
either will not result in a material adverse effect on the financial 
position and results of operations of the Company or are adequately 
covered by: (i) insurance; (ii) contractual or statutory 
indemnification; and/or (iii) reserves for potential losses.

CILCO
As discussed in the 1995 Form 10-K, on July 6, 1994, a lawsuit was filed 
against CILCO in a United States District Court by Vector-Springfield 
Properties, Ltd., seeking damages related to alleged coal tar 
contamination from the site of a former gas manufacturing plant which 
was owned but never operated by CILCO. The lawsuit seeks cost recovery 
of more than $3 million related to coal tar investigation expenses, 
operating losses and diminution of market value.  CILCO is vigorously 
defending against these claims.  Management cannot currently determine 
the outcome of this litigation, but does not believe it will have a 
material adverse impact on CILCO's financial position or results of 
operations.

Item 4:  Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

Shareholders cast the following votes at the Company's Annual Meeting of 
Shareholders held April 23, 1996:
                                                                
                                                Votes       Abstentions &
                                               Against          Broker
                               Votes for     or Withheld      Non-Votes
Elected to the Board of                                     
 Directors:                                                 
J. R. Brazil                   10,440,840      268,683             0  
J. D. Caulder                  10,418,349      290,220             0  
M. M. Yeomans                  10,462,271      239,351             0  
                                                            

                                                                         
Item 5:  Other Information

Electric Competition

The National Energy Policy Act of 1992 (NEPA) encourages competition 
but specifically bans federally-mandated transmission of power to 
retail customers.  However, several state legislatures and public 
utility regulatory commissions are investigating or adopting pilot 
programs to initiate competition at the retail level.  In addition, 
incentive regulation is being implemented or considered by 
legislatures and public utility commissions in more than twenty 
states.  Utilities may benefit or lose depending upon their ability 
to reduce costs and improve efficiency.

In July 1995, Illinois enacted legislation which offers gas and electric 
public utilities an opportunity to develop alternative regulation and 
performance-based ratemaking programs.  These programs will be subject 
to standards established by the ICC and will be restricted to the 
utility's service territory.  These programs must be approved by the ICC 
and must end by June 30, 2000.  A report on the results of the programs 
will be delivered to the Illinois legislature by December 31, 2000.

With the proposed changes in the regulatory environment and the 
potential for increased competition in the electric utility industry 
at both the wholesale and retail levels, CILCO anticipates 
significant changes in the industry in the years to come.  Management 
cannot predict the ultimate effect of these changes, but believes 
that they will result in customers having the opportunity to select 
the electric supplier of their choice and that low operating costs,  
improved efficiency and new and better services and products will be 
key competitive factors for electric utilities.

In August 1995, CILCORP took steps to position itself and its 
subsidiaries to deal more effectively with industry change.  The 
Company developed a point of view about the future utility and energy 
services industry which has led it to champion customer choice and to 
develop a growth strategy.  In addition, CILCORP identified the need 
to gain additional customer insight through market research and other 
means, to obtain new core competencies, to develop new product and 
service offerings, to make operational changes to become more 
competitive, to pursue legislative and regulatory strategies to 
further competition, and to identify and strategically allocate 
Company resources.

To lead the movement toward increased customer choice, CILCO 
requested regulatory approval from the ICC in August 1995 to 
establish two electric pilot retail competition programs known as 
Power Quest. The programs offer greater choice to customers and 
provide the opportunity for CILCO and its customers to participate in 
a competitive business environment.  These programs were approved by 
the ICC in March 1996 and approved by the FERC in April 1996.

One program permits eight of CILCO's industrial customers that had 
peak loads of 10 megawatts or more during the twelve months ended 
July 31, 1995, to secure part or all of their electric power 
requirements from suppliers other than CILCO, subject to the 
limitation that at no time shall total purchases by participants in 
the program exceed 50 megawatts (approximately 10% of CILCO's 
industrial load).  The program's two-year term may be extended with 
the approval of the ICC.

In the other program, CILCO designated five areas within its service 
territory as "Open Access Sites" for up to five years.  The sites 
include three Central Illinois communities, a shopping center, and a 
developing commercial business site.  During that period, customers 
located within these Open Access Sites--whether residential, 
commercial or industrial--are eligible to purchase some or all of 
their electric power requirements from suppliers other than CILCO.  
The five-year program period may be extended with ICC approval.

Under Power Quest, CILCO will deliver, for an approved fee, other 
suppliers' power from a designated receipt point on CILCO's system to 
the customer's location, as well as provide other associated services. 
CILCO will not impose any exit fees, entrance fees, or stranded cost 
recovery upon any customers in connection with Power Quest.

During Power Quest, CILCO anticipates a reduction in electric profit 
margin because some eligible customers are expected to purchase some or 
all of their power requirements from other suppliers.  The amount of any 
such reduction depends largely upon the extent of customer participation 
in Power Quest.  CILCO expects, but cannot assure, that some of the 
reduced profit margin will be offset by increased sales to customers and 
utilities outside its service territory.  For the industrial program, 
the Company anticipates a reduction in net income of up to $4 million if 
the entire 50 megawatts of eligible industrial capacity moves to off-
system suppliers.  For the Power Quest Open Access Sites, the Company 
anticipates a reduction in net income of up to $.1 million, based on 
customers' initial participation through May 1, 1996.  If all eligible 
customers in the open access sites participate in Power Quest, the 
Company would experience a reduction in net income of up to $.7 million.  
Management cannot currently predict the additional impact on its 
financial condition which may result from proposed changes in the 
regulatory environment or from increased competition in the electric 
utility industry.

In an effort to obtain a competitive advantage, various mergers and 
business combinations are occurring in the utility industry.  There 
have been several announced utility industry mergers or business 
combinations which will have an impact on the region in which CILCO 
currently operates.  Mergers and combinations have also been 
announced in other areas of the country. CILCO management will 
monitor this activity and continue to position itself for competition 
by keeping its costs and prices low, maintaining good customer 
relations and developing the flexibility to respond directly to 
individual customer requirements.

Reduction of Materials and Supplies Inventory

As part of an effort to become more competitive, CILCO personnel are 
performing a detailed analysis of materials and supplies inventories 
at power plant and transmission and distribution storerooms.  As a 
result of the analysis, CILCO plans to reduce materials and supplies 
inventory levels by approximately $4 million through the sale, 
disposal, or use of identified inventory items.  Throughout the 
remainder of 1996, this inventory reduction is expected to result in 
an after-tax reduction to net income of approximately $1.8 million.

Restructuring of Subsidiary Boards of Directors

To better focus strategic decision-making at the Holding Company Board 
level, the Board of Directors of CILCO, ESE, CIM and CVI were 
restructured effective as of their respective annual meetings during the 
second quarter of 1996.  The Board of Directors of CILCO was reduced 
from 11 members to 3 members effective at the Annual Meeting of CILCO on 
April 23, 1996.  The three directors include the following officers of 
CILCO:  Thomas S. Romanowski, Vice President and Chief Financial 
Officer; James F. Vergon, President and Chief Operating Officer; and 
Robert O. Viets, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer.  The Boards of 
Directors of CIM and CVI were restructured to include internal directors 
only, and the Board of ESE will include only one outside director.

CILCO Gas Pilot Program

On May 8, 1996, CILCO filed a petition with the Illinois Commerce 
Commission (ICC) seeking regulatory permission to create a five-year 
pilot program that would allow certain residential consumers to select 
their natural gas supplier.  CILCO will continue to provide distribution 
and metering services.  Under this program, known as Therm Quest, a 
limited number of CILCO's residential gas sales customers, located in 
open access sites to be designated by CILCO, will be permitted to elect 
to receive only gas transportation services from CILCO, and thus 
purchase natural gas from providers other than CILCO.  The gas open 
access sites to be designated by CILCO will contain approximately 10,000 
residential gas sales customers.  The sites chosen for this pilot 
program will be identified after the petition has been approved.  CILCO 
is requesting approval of this petition by the ICC within 45 days, with 
an effective date of September 1, 1996.  Management does not believe 
this program will have a material adverse impact on CILCO's financial 
position or results of operations.


Item 6:  Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K.

(a) Exhibits

    27 - Financial data schedules

(b) Reports on Form 8-K

    None

                                  SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1934, the regis
trant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the 
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.
                                                     CILCORP Inc.
                                                     (Registrant)



Date May 10, 1996                                     R. O. Viets
                                                      R. O. Viets
                                                    President and 
                                                Chief Executive Officer


Date May 10, 1996                                     J. L. Barnett
                                                      J. L. Barnett
                                                       Controller

                               SIGNATURES


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1934, the regis
trant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the 
undersigned thereunto duly authorized.

                                    CENTRAL ILLINOIS LIGHT COMPANY
                                             (Registrant)



Date  May 10, 1996                         T. S. Romanowski
                                           T. S. Romanowski
                                      Vice President and Chief
                                           Financial Officer




Date  May 10, 1996                         R. L. Beetschen 
                                           R. L. Beetschen
                                      Controller and Manager 
                                          of Accounting