Blog
PUC denies Xcel’s request to purchase gas power plant
The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission has unanimously denied Xcel’s request to purchase the Mankato Energy Center power plant. The PUC agreed with CUB that Xcel failed to show that spending $650 million was in the public interest and, crucially, that the utility was attempting to sidestep crucial regulatory processes in place to protect consumers from…
Illinois CUB study: Low-income households are charged more than their fair share for electricity
Lower-income households pay more than their fair share for electricity and subsidize higher-income residential customers. That’s the conclusion of a landmark study by our sister organization to the southeast, the Illinois Citizens Utility Board. Flat electricity rates mean customers do not pay the actual cost to provide electricity At its most basic, electricity rates are…
Keeping our eye on Integrated Resource Planning
It’s been two months since Xcel Energy submitted its Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC). Over the last 60 days, CUB and several other parties have had a chance to give the plan a good once (twice, three times) over. The plan brings to light, once again, the amazing transition Minnesota’s…
Welcome Hannah Hoeger, CUB’s new Outreach and Communications Coordinator
CUB is excited to welcome Hannah Hoeger, the newest member of our team. Hannah joined the Citizens Utility Board in September 2019 as the organization’s Outreach and Communications Coordinator. Before coming to CUB, Hannah worked at the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources within their Outreach and Communications Division, where she provided answers to stakeholders on…
Renters tips to save energy and money
When renting an apartment or home it is important to consider the utilities you need to pay for in addition to your rent. Here are some general tips to help you get prepared when your utility bill comes in. Find out what you are responsible for. Renters are often expected to sign up and pay…