A solar benefit called “net metering” is NOT going away in 2025, but it is changing, under state law. We’re continuing to gather details, but this Q&A covers what we know as of July 2024. What is net metering? Net metering is a benefit for solar users. Under Illinois law,…...
CUB’s monthly report on gas volatility: July 2024
Most gas utilities are charging higher supply prices, compared with last month and last year, according to CUB’s review of pricing information filed with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). Gas utilities file supply prices–called the Purchased Gas Adjustment (PGA)–each month with the ICC. Here’s a rundown of what we found.…...
How to: Determine the right size of your room air conditioner
Choosing the right size room air conditioner can significantly impact its performance and efficiency. Contrary to popular belief, a larger unit doesn’t always mean better cooling. It’s crucial to ensure that the air conditioner size matches the room’s dimensions and uses. Here’s how to determine the optimal size for your…...
Update on cases involving ComEd, Ameren Illinois power bills
We wanted to give you an update on some battles before the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). ComEd: As you recall, last year the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) rejected the utility’s grid plan and slashed its $1.47 billion rate-hike request by about 65 percent (ICC Docket # 23-0055). The company challenged…...
CUB News Release: ComEd pushes for customers to pay millions to fixed botched billing ‘upgrade’ that has crippled Illinois’ acclaimed Community Solar Program
With Commonwealth Edison’s botched billing system upgrade effectively blocking Illinois’ money-saving Community Solar program, the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) is demanding that the utility giant finally resolve the months-long problems and abandon a ploy to force frustrated customers to pay nearly $30 million to help fix the fiasco. (Here’s a…...
Protect yourself from utility disconnections
Protect yourself from disconnection with the following tips. Be proactive. If you’re having difficulty paying your bills, call your utility. Here are the direct hotlines for major Illinois utilities: Ameren Illinois – 1-800-755-5000 Aqua Illinois – 1-877-987-2782 ComEd – 1-800-334-7661 Illinois American Water – 1-800-422-2782 Nicor Gas – 1-888-642-6748 North…...
Buried in $493M in overdue bills: ICC database shows urgency of Illinois reining in big utilities
In one month alone, major electric, gas and water utilities in Illinois reported that more than 1.3 million of their customers were buried in $493.6 million in debt, according to April numbers the companies were required to file with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). “A lot has changed over the…...
Statement: CUB applauds ICC for holding the line on Peoples Gas, as regulators thwart utility’s renewed bid for inflated spending on pipe-replacement
CHICAGO—Last November, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) reduced Peoples Gas’ proposed rate hike by about $100 million and ordered the utility to pause its controversial and financially bloated pipe-replacement program – known as the System Modernization Program (SMP) – pending further review to determine whether it could substantiate the need…...
CUB’s Springfield Update: Thank you to our supporters!
By Bryan McDaniel, CUB Director of Governmental Affairs With major Illinois utilities pushing for a record number of rate hikes over the past year, CUB drafted and found sponsors for four pro-consumer bills at the State Capitol. CUB’s legislation addressed the kind of issues that frustrate Illinois consumers: Worked to protect…...
