#United States #Chicago #Citizens Utility Board #Ameren Illinois #Energy Assistance

CUB Requests Collaboration from Ameren Amid Power Price Surge

As summer approaches, Ameren Illinois customers are bracing themselves for a staggering 50% increase in their electricity costs. The Citizens Utility Board (CUB) has recently called upon the utility company to actively collaborate with customers to mitigate the financial strain caused by this price surge, especially during the sweltering summer months.

CUB's Executive Director, Sarah Moskowitz, has emphasized the urgency of the situation. She stated, “This will be a difficult summer for far too many customers. 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.” Recognizing that many customers might struggle to keep up with rising bills, CUB is advocating for the introduction of more consumer-friendly payment plans, allowing families a longer timeframe to pay off their debts without fear of disconnection.

The current 'price to compare' rate set by Ameren during the summer months is 12.18 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), a figure that encompasses not just the supply price, but also transmission costs and a supply cost adjustment. This considerable increase is set against the backdrop of skyrocketing reserve power prices, also known as capacity costs, which are largely blamed on policy issues within the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO)—the organization responsible for electricity capacity auctions in central and southern Illinois. As a result, Ameren's increasing cost burden is being passed directly to the customers, impacting their monthly expenses significantly.

According to estimates, the hike will translate to an additional $38 to $46 added to the average consumer’s bill each month during the summer, representing an increase of approximately 18 to 22%. Such a burden has raised concerns about electricity accessibility during peak demand periods, especially as summer temperatures soar.

In light of the situation, the Citizens Utility Board is sharing critical tips to support consumers as they navigate these challenging conditions:

• - Emphasize Energy Efficiency: Simple measures can be implemented to manage electricity consumption effectively. Households are encouraged to seal any gaps in windows and doors, minimize the use of unnecessary lights, and practice general energy efficiency to avoid excessive heating in their homes.
• - Maintain Contact with Ameren: Open communication with the utility provider is essential. Customers facing financial difficulties are encouraged to reach out to Ameren to explore potential payment arrangements and to inquire about available energy efficiency programs that could alleviate some of their financial burdens.
• - Consider Assistance Programs: Ameren offers programs such as the Peak Time Rewards, which incentivizes customers to reduce energy usage during high-demand periods—typically during hot afternoons in the summer. The community solar program is another option, allowing clients to benefit from solar energy without the need for rooftop installations; both programs promise savings relative to Ameren's supply prices.
• - Beware of Scams: The rise of alternative electricity suppliers often comes with risks. Since 2015, Illinois customers have reportedly lost a staggering $1.8 billion to various alternative electricity providers. Given current market volatility, CUB suggests that Ameren might still be the most reliable option for consumers unless local contracts with other suppliers can guarantee lower rates.

For over 40 years, the Citizens Utility Board has served as Illinois' foremost nonprofit utility watchdog, working diligently to represent the interests of residential and small business utility customers. Established by the Illinois Legislature in 1984, CUB has successfully blocked unjust rate increases and obtained refunds for consumers, saving them over $20 billion in the process.

For assistance or more information, individuals may contact CUB's Consumer Hotline at 1-800-669-5556 or visit their official website at www.CitizensUtilityBoard.org. As summer looms ahead, taking proactive measures now could enable households to maintain safe and cool living conditions despite the rising electricity costs.