Following the introduction of low-income discount programs for Illinois’ major gas utilities and private water companies, Commonwealth Edison (ComEd) will be rolling out its own discount program in January of 2026. This program is required under the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and will provide monthly electric-bill discounts for…...
CUB Q&A: The Low-Income Discount Rate (LIDR) program for private water customers
In late 2024, the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) approved a low-income discount rate (LIDR) for eligible customers of Illinois’ private water companies, Aqua Illinois and Illinois American Water. The program was launched in July of 2025. Who qualifies for the LIDR? To be considered for the low-income discount rate program… Aqua…...
Alert: LIHEAP has reopened applications
With another potentially expensive winter ahead, CUB urges consumers to apply for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funding, now that the application process has reopened. Households at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level are eligible for LIHEAP funding. The application period runs through May 31,…...
Worried about expensive utility bills? Check out these resources for Illinois consumers
As energy prices skyrocket and an expensive summer approaches, CUB has compiled a list of resources to help consumers who are struggling with their bills. Please share this blog post with your friends and family. If you or someone you know is having trouble paying for utility services, the first…...
New assistance program helps Nicor customers afford their gas bills
Nicor Gas and The Salvation Army are partnering to provide emergency assistance to help individuals and families pay their natural gas utility bills. Funding through the Shield of Caring program will assist residential customers who are past due on their gas bill and report a financial hardship, such as a…...
Utility Diaries: A Month of Bills in Urbana, Illinois
In Utility Diaries, we look at what different households across Illinois pay in a month for utility expenses. Today’s household consists of two people in a rented house in Urbana. Housing Background Location: Urbana, IL Household Size: 2 people Housing Type: House Rent or Own: Rent Square Footage: 1,215 Year…...
