Congratulations to Candice of Lake Zurich on winning CUB’s $100 prize for participating in our “Most Expensive Utility Bill of 2021” poll. Candice’s submission was randomly selected from over 300 participants. Like most other respondents, Candice said their natural gas bill was the worst: “My gas bill in December 2020…...
February’s natural gas prices: How much will you pay to heat your home?
A year after a deep freeze across the Southern United States sparked problems in the natural gas distribution system, Illinois consumers are still suffering under skyrocketing heating bills because of that extreme weather and other market problems. The prices for major natural gas utilities in Illinois are as follows: Ameren…...
As Illinois consumers suffer through a cold, expensive winter, coalition urges Springfield to end abusive surcharge on heating bills
With heating bills skyrocketing across Illinois, a coalition of consumer advocates joined with key legislators on Monday to urge the Illinois General Assembly to eliminate a natural gas surcharge that has helped major utilities rapidly increase bills, plunging many families into crisis this winter. At a news conference, AARP Illinois,…...
Q&A: What is the QIP surcharge on my gas bill?
What is the QIP surcharge? The Qualified Infrastructure Plant, or QIP, fee is charged by Ameren Illinois, Nicor Gas and Peoples Gas, the three biggest gas utilities in Illinois. It covers certain costs associated with replacing natural gas pipes and other work on the utilities’ gas delivery system. You may…...
If you’re an Ameren customer, know these 7 features of your online account
If you’re an Ameren customer, registering for online access with your utility has its benefits. You can easily make payments, update your contact information, access account information, view your current and previous bills and review your usage history. To sign up for Ameren online access, visit this webpage. You’ll most…...
Consumer-friendly features to know on ComEd’s website
If you’re a ComEd customer, registering for online access with your utility has its benefits—you can easily make payments, update your contact information, access account information, view your current and previous bills and review your usage history. To sign up for ComEd online access, visit this webpage. You’ll most likely…...
New FCC program helps income-qualified consumers access internet
The Affordable Connectivity Program is a new benefit program through the Federal Communications Commission that helps ensure households can afford the broadband they need for work, school, healthcare and more. The benefit provides a discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households and up to…...
Preparing your home for winter storms
Preparing your family and your home for rough winter weather can often help you avoid disaster. CUB compiled helpful tips. 1. Weatherize your home. Complete weatherization tasks, like the ones included in the list below, and protect your home and your wallet. Clean or repair heating and cooling systems. Install…...
