Some of our best sources of information are Illinois consumers who tell us what they’re doing to save money. Last week, we asked you to submit your money-saving utility tips. You shared a lot of good advice, everything from assessing your phone plan to switching to LEDs. Below, we’ve highlighted…...
Cellphone Guide Sources
“Access Wireless.” (2019). Retrieved Nov. 20, 2019. https://www.accesswireless.com/. “AT&T Senior Plan Review.” (2019). Retrieved Oct. 24, 2019. https://www.seniorliving.org/cell-phone/att/reviews/. “Coverage Maps.” (2019). Retrieved Nov. 20, 2019. https://www.opensignal.com/networks. “Download apps and games from the App Store.” (2019). Retrieved Nov. 20, 2019. https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT204266. “Get Android apps and digital content from the Google Play…...
Maintenance plans: read the fine print
Maybe you’ve received a letter in the mail selling a utility maintenance plan that pitches “peace of mind” or “safety and security” and promises to “simplify the home repair and maintenance process.” But be careful: That peace of mind can cost you. Marketed as low-cost insurance to protect you against…...
For sale: your water
By Bryan McDaniel, Director of Governmental Affairs Water. We need it to live. Should we all own this valuable resource, or should private companies own our water? That question will be asked all over the state in the wake of two private companies successfully pushing for one of the nation’s most…...
Chicago City Council supports CEJA, “puts us on the right path” to a clean energy future
In a boost to the fight for clean, affordable energy, the Chicago City Council unanimously passed a resolution today supporting the Clean Energy Jobs Act (CEJA). CEJA puts Illinois “on the right path” to a clean energy future, said Ald. George Cardenas, as he introduced the resolution. Cardenas is chairman…...
Your questions, answered: Chicago’s new Utility Bill Relief Program
Last week, Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot announced the details of her new Utility Bill Relief Program. Taking aim at the burden of overdue water bills on low-income residents, the new policy would provide qualified Chicago residents with a 50 percent discounted rate for water, sewer, and water-sewer tax bills —…...
Consumer advocates, Commissioner Kevin B. Morrison host free clinics on cutting utility costs and energy efficiency programs
CUB is hosting two free utility bill clinics to help Hoffman Estates and Streamwood residents potentially save hundreds of dollars a year on their utility bills. Attendees are encouraged to bring copies of their gas, electric and phone bills for free, one-on-one consultations with CUB’s experts. CUB’s utility bill clinics,…...
Solarize Chicagoland surpasses summer goals, will install 135 solar arrays
The Solarize Chicagoland program surpassed its goals this summer, achieving commitments to install nearly 1,000 kilowatts (kW) of solar on 135 properties in the Chicago area. The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) and Midwest Renewable Energy Association (MREA) launched this solar group-buy program in April, and the program’s participation deadline was…...
