This June we’re challenging EVERYONE in Chicago to join CUB’s Community Action Campaign. In the battles below, Julie, CUB’s general counsel, is up against the best lawyers the utilities can buy. She can’t beat them alone, which is why you and your neighbors must join the fight. Remember they only win when…...
Nicor customers beware: Top 3 highest gas prices
This month, Nicor Gas customers–and their checkbooks—were happy to see the regulated utility’s price plunge 27 percent compared to its rate last October. But beware that some alternative gas suppliers are still offering plans that are almost double Nicor’s current rate. Protect yourself from bad deals by taking a quick look at…...
CUB endorsement: Programs to help lower your gas bills!
Over the summer, we asked our CUB Action Network members if they wanted to know more about CUB’s favorite energy efficiency programs. The answer was a resounding: YES! So without further adieu, here is a deep dive into two programs being offered to gas customers in Northern Illinois: the energySMART program from…...
Hello October, hello lower gas prices!
By Samantha Vercellino As October rolls in, consumers begin preparing themselves for the arrival of two things: Starbucks’ Pumpkin Spice Lattes and higher utility bills. But Illinoisans may be singing a different tune this heating season, because major Illinois utilities are charging consumers 25-27 percent less to heat their homes…...
Money-saving programs to brag about
By Samantha Vercellino Thanks to efficiency programs offered by Illinois’ major utilities saving energy—and money— is easier than ever before. CUB chose five of its favorite energy efficiency programs from across Illinois. (See them below in no particular order.) ComEd’s Lighting Discounts Lighten your utility woes by switching to newer energy-saving…...
Worst Natural Gas Deals in Illinois
In northern Illinois, consumers have the option of choosing their natural gas supplier. But be careful! CUB reviewed dozens of offers and uncovered prices that were double or nearly double the utility rates. Watch CUB tell ABC 7’s Jason Knowles how to be a savvy shopper in the gas market. The fact that…...
Early morning special includes utility bill help for Rockford group
By Samantha Vercellino Last Tuesday, the Rock Church Wellspring Seniors Group gobbled up eggs and pancakes while learning how to slash their utility bills by CUB experts. The Outreach Team was asked to join the group’s monthly breakfast by John and Mavis Readman of Rockford who have been CUB members…...
Keeping up with $1.6 billion in Illinois rate-hike battles
Consumer wallets took a big hit in January, with four utility rate increases–and a new $53 million natural gas rate-hike request. On Jan. 1, ComEd and Ameren were awarded a combined electric rate increase of $436 million (about $232 million for ComEd and $204 for Ameren). CUB filed a “petition for…...