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New York's bold move empowering consumers that increases oversight and promote fair practices in the energy sector. In a significant move towards consumer protection and energy affordability, New York Governor Kathy Hochul signed legislation (A.703-A/S.683-A) on September 20, 2023. The new law mandates that Energy Service Companies (ESCOs) obtain customer consent before implementing any material price increases.

Chicago City Council Committee tackles inaccurate water bills. The Chicago City Council Finance Committee recently convened for a nearly four-hour hearing to address longstanding issues related to inaccurate water billing within the city. This development comes in response to a series of investigative reports, which shed light on the problems faced by residents due to erroneous water billing.

Residents in Midtown, Houston, are expressing concerns after receiving unusually high water bills. Costa Mavridis and his girlfriend, who have been living in the area for a decade, were shocked when their water bill skyrocketed from the usual $40 to a staggering $1,400 for May and June. Despite reaching out to the city of Houston for clarification, they were told the exorbitant bill was caused by a private leak, absolving the city of any responsibility. However, Mavridis contends that they made no repairs during that time, and the bill inexplicably returned to normal in July. In this blog, we explore the situation and the measures taken by Mavridis to resolve the issue.

Peoples Gas faces outcry as Chicagoans urge regulators to reject outrageous rate increase. In a dramatic showdown at the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), Chicago residents and consumer advocates voiced their vehement opposition to a proposed $402 million rate hike sought by Peoples Gas. The meeting held at UIC's Dorin Forum was attended by residents, already burdened by soaring inflation, speak out against the gas utility's request to increase rates.

Managing household utilities is an essential part of frugal living. By adopting energy-saving practices and making smart choices, you can reduce your utility bills without sacrificing comfort or convenience. From electricity and water to heating and cooling, there are numerous opportunities to save money while minimizing your environmental impact. Let's look at some tips specifically focused on utilities, that will help you maximize savings and embrace a more sustainable lifestyle.

Richmond residents will see a higher utility bill in July 2023. That's because Richmond City Council approved back in May that July would be the first month that a higher bill would go into effect. According to the Department of Public Utilities, households will see an average increase of $8.70 a month. That is a 9% increase from what residents have been paying. It might seem like a small amount for some people. For others, they might need to adjust their monthly budget.

The Washington Post reported this month that the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) is reviewing a proposal from the state's three largest utilities to charge electricity users based on their income. Currently, users are only charged for the amount of electricity used.

Struggling with high water costs? Help is available. In May 2023, the Missouri Public Service Commission (MoPSC) approved a rate settlement that will result in many Missouri residents paying an extra $5 to $7 per month for water costs. For families already struggling, that extra $60 to $84 per year may be difficult - or even impossible - to afford. If you can relate, read on to learn more about how to get help with your water bill in St. Charles County, MO.

A Colorado woman was surprised after Excel Energy installed a new smart meter on her home in July '22. After that installation, her monthly bill increased by several hundred dollars without any apparent reason. She then receives a large invoice for $2,983.27 for a period of 17 months prior, which is prohibited by the Code of Colorado Regulations, unless there is meter fraud or tampering.

MORRISTOWN, NJ - The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has launched an interactive dashboard, providing up-to-date information on funding for crucial drinking water and clean water infrastructure projects. The move is set to empower local governments and the public with real-time insights, underscoring the state's commitment to healthy and economically thriving communities.

Small towns in Oklahoma won't have to bear the burden on utility changes--but how will individual property owners be affected?. Disclaimer: There are no affiliate links in this article. All outside references are accredited and may be followed using the links. The outline for this article was written with the assistance of ai. This article is for educational and informational purposes and not intended to give an extended explanation of the law.

New Jersey DCA Encourages Residents to Apply for Utility Assistance Programs. The New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) is reminding residents during Utility Assistance Week that help is available for those struggling to pay energy, water, and sewer bills. The aim of Utility Assistance Week is to raise awareness about existing programs and resources that can provide financial aid to households facing difficulties paying past-due utility bills.

Berkeley Heights to Receive Infrastructure Upgrades with $3.8 Million Investment for Improved Water Service Reliability and Flow. New Jersey American Waterwill replace approximately 7,100 feet of aging water main in Berkeley Heights starting this week.

The customer education campaign will promote bill assistance resources to customers in need. April 14, 2023 – In recognition of Utility Assistance Week beginning Monday, April 17, New Jersey American Water is amplifying communication efforts surrounding several assistance and deferred payment programs available to qualifying customers across the state.

There is almost no question that years of poor decisions, mismanagement, and stripping cash assets of Gainesville’s publicly owned utilities provider GRU by the Gainesville City Council has led us to this precarious and unfavorable situation.

FLORHAM PARK, NJ - The Florham Park Water Department kicked off its annual hydrant flushing program today, April 11, 2023, to ensure the continued delivery of high-quality water to its customers. The program, which will run from 9:00 A.M. to 2:30 P.M., is expected to take approximately two weeks to complete.

A new bill was just signed into law by Gov. Murphy which prevents utility providers from shutting off service due to lack of payment. New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy signed S3333/A5020 into law today, preventing water utility providers that have not joined the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs' (DCA) Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) from taking certain collection actions against customers with arrearages.

Delaware River Tributary Chemical Spill Prompts Water Conservation Request, Authorities Reassure Residents of Safe Drinking Water. A chemical spill occurred early Saturday morning in a tributary of the Delaware River near Bristol, PA, when a mechanical failure at the Trinseo facility released an estimated 8,100 gallons of latex finishing material. The spill has prompted New Jersey American Water to issue a voluntary conservation notice for customers in Burlington, Camden, and Gloucester counties while reassuring residents that the treated water remains safe to consume.

Health Officials Investigate Seven Additional Cases of Legionnaires’ Disease Reported in Mercer County, Urge Precautions to Reduce Risk of Legionella Growth. Mercer County, NJ - The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is conducting an ongoing investigation into Legionnaires' disease cases in Mercer County, with seven additional cases reported between October 2022 and March 2023. Two of the seven individuals have died.

RICHMOND, VA. - Richmond residents may see an increase in utility bills as Mayor Levar Stoney's proposed budget includes an 8% expansion in gas, water, and wastewater rates. According to city evaluations, the proposed increase would cost the average private client $106 annually.