As of Jan. 1, ComEd and Ameren hit Illinois consumers with a combined electric rate increase of $436 million (about $232 million for ComEd and $204 million for Ameren). The rate-hike, which went into effect January 1, impacts “delivery” rates—what you pay the utility to deliver power to you—and accounts…...
New year, new hope for the Internet?
Recently at the world’s largest consumer electronics show, FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler appeared to defend the reclassification of broadband Internet under Title II of the Telecommunications Act. That bombshell appears to be a big win for net neutrality, the idea that Internet Service Providers (ISPs) must treat all Internet content…...
Illinois natural gas prices drop (for now)
By Samantha Vercellino The temperature isn’t the only thing that’s dropping. Gas prices have fallen by up to 31 percent this month, compared with December. Here’s a sampling of what major Illinois utilities are charging this month compared with last: Utility Company Jan. 2015 (cents/therm) Dec. 2014 (cents/therm) Percent Ameren 56.308 57.17 -1.51%…...
CUB Consumer Alert: tips on keeping safe, warm in the bitter cold
With forecasts calling for dangerous wind chills as low as 40 below zero, CUB today released a Consumer Alert. Here are our emergency tips: Don’t take any risks. The Illinois Department of Public Health recommends setting your thermostat no lower than 66 degrees in times like this. Never use your…...
Tell the FCC: Protect our phone service!
Sign CUB’s petition to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC)! As Big Telecom pushes customers onto wireless and computer-based substitutes to replace traditional home phone service, the FCC is asking: How can we protect consumers? In Springfield, CUB is preparing to battle AT&T and other big phone companies that want to scrap…...
‘Tis the Season! Enter to win LED holiday lights!
We’ve rounded the corner on Halloween and put our Thanksgiving leftovers behind us (although, unfortunately, not all those pumpkin-pie-pounds). Now, it’s officially time to bust out the stockings, warm some cocoa, and hang the mistletoe! In honor of the season, CUB is spreading some holiday cheer to our dedicated followers across Illinois. To say ‘Thank you’ for…...
Energy-efficient holiday buying guide
By Samantha Vercellino If Black Friday was a bust (which it was for me), you’re still racking your brain for what to get your family and friends. Luckily, we’ve put together a list of our top five energy-efficient stocking stuffers. Powerless stereo speakers. iPhone enthusiasts can amplify their holiday music…...
News that hits us like a big lump of coal: Gas prices up by as much as 30% this December
By Samantha Vercellino As cold grips the Midwest in the opening days of December, we’re forced to welcome natural gas prices that are up to 30 percent higher. Major Illinois utilities are charging consumers 13-30 percent more to heat their homes this December compared to last. Peoples Gas showed the…...
