4 days ago
CUB asks Ameren to work with customers this summer amid utility price hike
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — The Citizens Utility Board is asking Ameren Illinois to work with customers amid utility increases.
Ameren Illinois customers will be facing a 50% power increase, prompting the group to request that the utility work with those who may struggle to pay the increased bill, according to Jim Chilsen, a CUB spokesman.
'This will be a difficult summer for far too many customers,' said CUB Executive Director Sarah Moskowitz. 'In this expensive summer, we urge Ameren to do everything possible to work with customers so they can stay connected and keep their homes safe and cool.'
She has requested from Ameren that they offer 'customer-friendly payment plans' which allow customers longer periods to pay off their debt, Chilsen said.
The increase is estimated to raise customers' bills by about $38 to $46 each month. This summer, the increase is credited to the rise in cost for reserve power, Chilsen said.
According to CUB's website, reserve power, also called 'capacity,' prices have risen because of 'poor policies' from regional power grid operators such as PJM Interconnection in ComEd territory and MISO in Ameren territory.
CUB has released the following tips to help customers 'get through expensive utilities' this summer:
Use energy efficiency to soften the blow of the price spike. Simple actions can help, such as weatherizing windows and doors and turning off unnecessary lights. Don't take risks that keep your home too hot. Efficiency is about eliminating waste but staying safe and cool this summer.
Stay in contact with your utility. Consumers who are struggling should contact Ameren to inquire about payment plans and learn about energy efficiency programs.
Consider programs to help ease costs. Ameren's Peak Time Rewards program gives customers the opportunity to earn bill credits by reducing electricity usage during high-demand periods, typically summer afternoons. Also, Illinois' community solar program offers customers the benefits of solar power without having to install panels on their homes. All offers currently guarantee savings compared to Ameren's supply price. CUB's resource, can help you carefully shop for offers.
Beware of rip-offs. Since 2015, Illinois consumers have lost about $1.8 billion to alternative electricity suppliers. These suppliers are impacted by the same market conditions that are causing utility prices to increase, so it's likely, even in this expensive market, that Ameren is your best bet. One exception: If your community has negotiated a power deal with a supplier, it's possible the price is lower than Ameren's supply rate. Confirm the price and find out when the offer expires.
More tips can be found on CUB's website.
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