If you already own a programmable thermostat, you might be asking what the incentive is to invest in a smart thermostat: What kind of benefits do you get, how does it work and what rebates are available? As a consumer advocate, CUB finds the biggest benefit of a smart thermostat…...
CUB releases first of its kind electric vehicle guide
The growing popularity of electric vehicles (EVs) will eventually bring major changes in electricity consumption. But EVs could be a key to creating a more efficient electricity system and lower rates for consumers—if state regulators, public utilities and consumer advocates work together to develop the right policies, according to a…...
BREAKING: ComEd has filed for a $96 million rate hike
“A rate hike is never good news for consumers,” CUB Executive Director David Kolata said. “CUB will conduct a detailed review of ComEd’s $96 million rate-hike request, and we will challenge every penny the company can’t justify.” Help us fight the hike! Send a message to state regulators against ComEd’s…...
Money-saving programs worth bragging about
Thanks to efficiency programs offered by Illinois’ major utilities, saving energy—and money— is easier than ever before. CUB chose seven of its favorite energy efficiency programs from across Illinois. (See them below in no particular order.) Lighting Discounts Under ComEd’s Energy Efficiency program, you can receive instant in-store discounts on select ENERGY STAR…...
Free CUB clinic to analyze electric, gas, phone bills in Chicago, show how to cut costs by hundreds of dollars a year
The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) will analyze utility bills at a free clinic to help Chicago residents save potentially hundreds of dollars a year. Consumers should bring their gas, electric and phone bills for a free, one-on-one consultation with a CUB expert, who will search for ways to lower their…...
Is this electric pitch legit? CUB breaks it down
Members of CUB’s consumer advocacy department (CAD) take thousands of inquiries each year, so they’ve heard all about the crazy pitches consumers receive from alternative electric suppliers. Last week, Sandra Marcelin-Reme—a veteran of the department—shared one consumer complaint that shows the type of trickery consumers are up against. Take a look at the…...
Good news- $17 million ComEd rate cut!
We thank the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) for approving a $17.5 million Commonwealth Edison rate cut. This is good news for ComEd customers. While building a more reliable power grid is a major undertaking, ComEd’s customers shouldn’t have to pay a penny more than what the utility can justify. This…...
