Gas supply rates are continuing to drop for most major utilities in Illinois, and they are far below the price spikes of 2022, according to a CUB review of April pricing information the companies filed with the state. Heating gas prices have decreased by up to 38 percent between March…...
A guide to energy efficiency programs for income-qualified households
By Kate Shonk Sustainable Communities Liason Facing high energy prices and the rising cost of living, many consumers want to cut down on their monthly utility bills. In Illinois, consumers have access to energy efficiency programs offered by utility companies–including ones for income-qualified households. The programs designed for lower-income customers…...
‘Rate-hike barrage’: Illinois utilities launch unprecedented campaign to raise rates by a combined total of $2.9 billion
CUB’s legal team faces an unprecedented challenge, as five of Illinois’ major utilities are asking for delivery rate hikes totaling $2.9 billion. Illinois consumers know how important this fight is–with the rising cost of living due to inflation, many of them face hard decisions. Nearly 34% of American households reduced…...
Statement from CUB Executive Director David Kolata on another record Nicor Gas rate-hike request
CUB statement on $321 million Nicor Gas rate-hike request: Nicor’s rate-hike request is a gut punch to consumers who are in their second consecutive winter of painfully high gas bills. Enough is enough. CUB will review Nicor’s excessive request and we will fight every penny the utility can’t justify. (Sign…...
Need to call your utility? Here’s a list of utility hotlines
Your utility bills will always list a number you can call if you need to reach the company that provides you with service. But if you don’t have your bill handy, CUB compiled a list. Utility hotlines ComEd: Residential: 1-800-EDISON-1 (1-800-334-7661) Spanish: 1-800-95-LUCES (1-800-955-8237) Business: 1-877-4-COMED-1 (1-877-426-6331) Emergencies: 1-800-334-7661 Payment arrangements and credit issues; 1-800-334-7661…...
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…...
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…...
Consumer Coalition launches campaign to eliminate gas utility surcharge
A coalition of consumer, environmental, and community advocates along with legislative champions have announced legislation to end a gas utility surcharge contributing to higher heating bills across the state. (Take action against this surcharge!) The coalition, which includes CUB, pointed to numerous examples of rapidly rising bills from one end…...
