With uncertain times come uncertain finances. Due to the public health emergency, you may have been laid off, your hours may have been cut, or you may have accrued unexpected medical expenses. Whatever the reason, paying your utility bills shouldn’t cause additional financial stress. These programs may be able to…...
Overpaying by $4.4 billion? New report shows why we need electricity market reforms
We’re paying $4.4 billion more for electricity than we need to be. According to a new report, consumers all over the U.S.—including northern Illinois—are overpaying for a “capacity” charge that’s hidden on most electric bills. This is a major reason why CUB is fighting for the electricity-market reform provisions in…...
CUB, consumer advocates fight to end reckless spending by gas utilities
Fed up with reckless spending by Peoples Gas, ratepayers, consumer advocates, and Chicago City Councilmembers are pressing the natural gas utility for answers about a growing heating affordability crisis in the City. “We have a responsibility to our constituents. We owe nothing to Peoples Gas,” said Ald. Byron Sigcho-Lopez (25th),…...
A message from CUB’s Executive Director: Responding to COVID-19
Dear Illinois consumers: Now that the World Health Organization has declared COVID-19 (also known as Coronavirus) a global pandemic, I want to let you know that the Citizens Utility Board (CUB) will continue to serve you through this public health crisis, while doing our part to limit this hazard from…...
CUB’s Virtual Utility Bill Clinic
Because of concerns about COVID-19, we are bringing back a popular service: virtual utility-bill clinics. How it works: A CUB specialist will look over your gas, electric and telecom bills to see if you’re signed up with an alternative supplier or if you’re paying for unnecessary products and services. We’ll…...
March update: Gas prices continue downward trend—but higher prices could be on the horizon
Most natural gas utilities decreased or maintained their price from last month and all lowered their rates from March 2019. This general trend has continued for three consecutive months, but federal officials predict that could come to an end soon. Here’s our monthly review of gas prices: Illinois Gas, a…...
It’s time to take the power back: Pass CEJA NOW!
More than 700 consumer and environmental advocates converged on Springfield this week to push for the Clean Energy Jobs Act (CEJA), encouraged by Gov. J.B. Pritzker’s pledge to pass legislation that puts “consumers and climate first.” “I’m not going to sign an energy bill written by the utility companies,” the…...
