Electricity supply prices charged by Commonwealth Edison and Ameren Illinois have increased by 10 percent and 19 percent, respectively, as of October 1. Now that a pandemic-related ban on door-to-door marketing has been lifted, CUB warned Illinois consumers to beware of unscrupulous alternative supplier sales representatives that may try to…...
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…...
$1 Nest thermostat offer through Oct. 11
ComEd customers can now purchase a Google Nest thermostat—a device that can help you cut your heating and cooling costs—at a deep discount: $1 through Oct. 11. Who is eligible for the $1 Nest thermostat offer? The offer is only available to ComEd customers through the utility’s online buying platform:…...
A Renter’s Utility Guide Sources
The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) used the following resources to research and write A Renter‘s Utility Guide: Go Green, Cut Costs and Learn Your Rights. CUB Facts on Alternative Suppliers. https://www.citizensutilityboard.org/electriccompetitioncomed/ CUB’s Guide to Buying Your Own Modem/Router. https://www.citizensutilityboard.org/buying-internet-routermodem/ CUB’s Guide to Phone Choices. 2021. https://citizensutilityboard.salsalabs.org/cubsguidetophonechoices/index.html 2015 Residential Energy Consumption Survey…...
CUB to participate in City of Chicago ‘Mobile City Hall’ events
The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) has been invited to participate in City Clerk of Chicago Anna Valencia’s Mobile City Hall initiative beginning this Saturday, Sept. 25. Each event will bring community resources and city departments directly to residents who are unable to commute downtown. CUB will have a table at…...
Forreston resident wins Best Energy Efficiency Tips contest
Congratulations to Geraldine of Forreston, IL on winning our Best Energy Efficiency Tip contest! A long time CUB member, she was randomly selected out of several participants to win $100 off of her utility bills. Check out the winning entry: “Use the air conditioner for brief periods (about 15 minutes…...
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…...
General Assembly passes historic energy bill: Now begins the hard work of implementation
The General Assembly has passed landmark energy legislation that consumer and environmental advocates have worked for years to achieve. The Climate and Equitable Jobs Act puts Illinois on a path to 100 percent clean energy while implementing the strongest utility ethics reforms and energy efficiency provisions in state history. And…...
Alternative supplier agrees to pay $300,000 settlement
Alternative electric supplier Star Energy Partners LLC will pay a $300,000 settlement for alleged misleading marketing practices and agreed to stop pitching its products or enrolling customers in Illinois for two years. The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved the settlement, which was negotiated by consumer advocates, including utility watchdog Citizens…...
