Most major Illinois gas utilities are holding on to high rates, the aftershock of the extreme cold that hit the nation back in February. Consumers are using less natural gas thanks to the warm weather, but it is still important to factor these high prices into your usage. The price…...
CUB challenges ICC’s approval of Nicor’s “trash gas” program
The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) is pushing back on a $16 million Nicor Gas pilot program that would charge consumers to connect its system to so-called “renewable natural gas” sources, such as landfills. The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) recently approved Nicor Gas’ proposal, but the consumer watchdog is challenging the…...
Alternative supplier to pay $325,000 for alleged marketing, sales violations
Alternative electric supplier Great American Power will pay a $325,000 settlement after consumer advocates accused it of failing to comply with state regulations governing alternative suppliers. The supplier is now banned from marketing its products or enrolling customers in Illinois for five years. The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved the…...
Consumers beware: new wave of text scams targeting Illinois residents
Illinois consumers should be on alert for a recent wave of phishing scams trying to defraud Illinoisans. The fraudsters are claiming to represent multiple state departments, including the Secretary of State. “Phishing” scams use messages disguised as reputable companies to persuade consumers to reveal personal information, such as passwords and credit…...
Natural gas prices continue rise into July
Most major Illinois gas utilities are again increasing their prices, the continued aftershock of the extreme cold that hit the country back in February. Temperatures are now warm and consumers are using less natural gas, but it is still important to factor these high prices into your usage. Most natural…...
CUB secures $411 refund for Chicago consumer with mixed meter issue
If you’ve ever called CUB, there’s a good chance you’ve spoken to Jantay Gray, one of the outstanding advocates who staff our Consumer Hotline (1-800-669-5556). Earlier this year, Jantay secured a $411 refund for Nicoletta, a Chicago consumer who submitted a complaint about a ComEd billing issue. “Last year, I…...
CUB releases new guide to help Illinois consumers shop phone market
The Citizens Utility Board announced that it has released a new “Guide to Phone Choices” to help Illinois consumers navigate their options in the telecom market. Visit CitizensUtilityBoard.org to order a free copy of the 16-page publication, which includes information about selecting cellphone, landline and VoIP service. The phone landscape…...
Study reveals October disconnection surge
Special consumer protections and a ninefold expansion in utility bill assistance in 2020 helped keep disconnections low during widespread economic stress caused by the pandemic, with the exception of October. In October 2020, disconnections doubled as utilities lifted their ban on shut offs, according to a new Tufts University study.…...
Sources – CUB’s Guide to Phone Choices
AARP, How to Use Zoom to Stay Connected During the Coronavirus, November 18, 2020: https://www.aarp.org/home-family/personal-technology/info-2020/how-to-use-zoom/ ABT Electronics, Telephone Buying Guide: https://www.abt.com/learn/telephone-buying-guide AllConnect, Are you losing money by not bundling? Sales pros chime in!, May 4, 2020: https://www.allconnect.com/blog/bundles-really-better AT&T Business, What is VoIP and how does it work?: https://www.business.att.com/learn/tech-advice/what-is-voip-and-how-does-it-work-.html AT&T, AT&T…...
Ambit Energy: Too Good to Be True?
CUB fields numerous inquiries about energy companies in Illinois, and we’ve heard recent concerns about Ambit Energy. If you’re considering signing up for Ambit as your energy supplier or working as a consultant for Ambit, make sure you understand the terms of your contract. Ambit Energy is a company based…...
