As the world adapts to Coronavirus, so does CUB. We recently launched a service—virtual utility bill clinics—to replace our popular in-person events until the public health crisis ends. Our first virtual bill inquiry came from Alma, a consumer with alternative supplier Constellation Energy. She emailed copies of her electric and…...
COVID-19 crisis: How agencies that distribute energy assistance are impacted
Agencies that distribute Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds to help people afford their utility bills have been affected by COVID-19. The chart below gives a summary of those agencies. UPDATE for all utility customers: If you have a question about assistance programs to help you pay your…...
COVID-19 crisis: 5 phone numbers utility customers should know
In a crisis like this, communication is key. All utility customers should keep these numbers handy. No. 1: Utility hotlines ComEd: Residential: 1-800-EDISON-1 (1-800-334-7661) Spanish: 1-800-95-LUCES (1-800-955-8237) Business: 1-877-4-COMED-1 (1-877-426-6331) Emergencies: 1-800-334-7661 Payment arrangements and credit issues; 1-800-334-7661 Ameren: Residential: 1-800-755-5000 Business: 1-800-232-2477 Nicor: Emergencies, or to speak to someone about your account or billing information: is…...
Struggling to pay your bills? These resources can help
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…...
Statement by CUB Executive Director David Kolata on ICC Consumer Protection Measures Amid COVID-19 Crisis
We thank state regulators for their pro-consumer actions today. These are uncertain times, and the last thing consumers need is to have their utility service interrupted, or to have their health threatened by alternative supplier sales representatives knocking on their doors. As this public health crisis unfolds, we need to…...
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),…...
