Gas prices are skyrocketing right now, and it looks like these high prices will continue through the winter. CUB’s Consumer Advocacy Department has already received some calls: Consumers want to know if it’s better to turn down their thermostat and turn on a space heater. The short answer: If you…...
Brace yourself: October gas prices more than double 2020 supply rates
Most Illinois natural gas utilities in October are charging more than double their 2020 prices, according to preliminary tariff filings. Natural gas prices have been on the rise since early this year, causing growing concern as winter weather draws near. These appear to be the highest winter heating season prices…...
Your Winter To-Do List: Save Money, Keep the Chill Out
Grocery stores have started selling Halloween candy, and Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spiced Latte is back on the menu: Fall is upon us, and chilly weather isn’t far behind. Start preparing for colder temps with these five to-dos to keep your home warm and safe this winter. Weatherstripping – Weatherstripping can be…...
High gas prices cause concern as cold temps near
Nearly every natural gas utility again raised their prices in September, causing more concern for consumers’ gas bills with winter just around the corner. These supply rates, some double or triple the utilities’ 2020 prices, are the result of the extreme cold that hit the nation back in February. As…...
Update: What’s going on with net neutrality?
President Joe Biden this summer signed an executive order restoring several internet consumer protections (a.k.a. “net neutrality” provisions) that were overturned by the Trump administration. But the order awaits a vote by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), which is still missing a fifth commissioner after Ajit Pai stepped down in…...
Bipartisan infrastructure bill would see funds for electric grid, internet, EVs
On Tuesday this week, the Senate passed the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, a $1.2 trillion bipartisan bill that takes aim at the nation’s failing infrastructure. The plan includes funding for roads and bridges, broadband infrastructure and access, electric vehicle charging stations and research, and aged water systems. “Today the…...
State: Illinois electric customers overpaid by $431 million with alternative suppliers
Illinois consumers who buy their electricity from alternative suppliers collectively paid $431 million more in the last year than they would have by sticking with their utility, according to a new report from the Illinois Commerce Commission’s Office of Retail Market Development. From May 31, 2020 through May 31, 2021,…...
Could alternative suppliers come knocking again soon?
At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, state utility regulators directed all alternative electric and natural gas suppliers to suspend their door-to-door sales because of the transmission risk. But the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) could soon allow doorstep sales now that Illinois is in phase 5 of its reopening plan. …...
