Press Conference at Springfield Capitol
Momentum is growing to hold Illinois utilities accountable for the hidden costs driving up energy bills.
On February 25th, advocates from 350 Chicago joined partners Citizens Utility Board and AARP Illinois at the Illinois Capitol in Springfield for a press conference calling attention to the Utility Transparency Act. This legislation is designed to stop utilities from charging customers for certain corporate and lobbying expenses.
The effort is already drawing public attention. The conference was recently highlighted in the Chicago Tribune, which reported on the “hidden expenses” utilities can pass along to Illinois ratepayers.
What’s hiding in your utility bill?
Many Illinois residents don’t realize that Investor-owned utilities (IOUs) can charge customers for costs that have little to do with delivering electricity or gas. These can include:
Lawyers and expert witnesses hired to push for higher rates
Memberships in trade associations that lobby against ratepayers
Insurance policies that protect shareholders
Goodwill advertising designed to boost the utility’s public image
What the Utility Transparency Act would do
The Utility Transparency Act would shift these expenses away from ratepayers and back onto utilities and their shareholders. This will help make energy bills more affordable while increasing accountability.
By bringing together consumer advocates, climate organizations, and senior advocates, the coalition behind this legislation is building real momentum for change in Springfield.
Take action!
Want to help stop utilities from charging customers for these hidden expenses?
Read the coverage in the Chicago Tribune and urge your legislators to support the Utility Transparency Act today.
