Don’t get burned

Alternative gas company deals may sound good, but could be accompanied by hidden fees

CHICAGO – If it looks too good to be true, it probably is, even when it comes to heating your home, according to the Citizens Utility Board, a Chicago-based nonprofit company representing the interests of residential utility customers in Illinois.

Nicor Gas customers can choose an alternative company to supply their gas if home heating prices become too steep, thanks to the customer select program launched in 1998.

However, as this winter’s natural gas prices rise above unprecedented levels, the Citizens Utility Board is warning area residents to be wary of “too good to be true” deals offered by these alternative companies, the prices for which are not regulated by the state of Illinois.

“You’d need a crystal ball to determine what plan would be a winner for consumers. We don’t have crystal balls,” said Jim Chilsen, spokesman for Citizens Utility Board. “The deal you thought you signed up for often turns out to not be such a great deal.”

Chicago Courier-News