Sangamon Sun

Illinoisans, like most Americans, are forking over more cash for energy-related bills, and state Rep. Mike Coffey (R-Springfield) has pointed out some money-saving tips.

Coffey addressed high energy prices in a recent Facebook post.

"If you've noticed a shocking increase in your utility bills lately, you are not alone," he said in the post. "Nationwide, home energy costs were 15.6% higher year-on-year in December. Here are a few tips for lowering energy bills and for finding assistance if you are having trouble paying them."

In his post, Coffey shared a link to an article from Time magazine that offered suggestions on how to lower energy bills. The tips went beyond turning off lights and suggested such things as insulating the attic, which would prevent heat from escaping through the roof. Curt Rich, president and CEO of the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association, told Time that insulating ceilings and floors could save up to 45% on energy bills.

Another suggestion the article made was to use an ENERGY STAR-certified dishwasher instead of washing dishes by hand. It cited information from the Natural Resources Defense Council, which said that washing dishes by hand "can use up to 27 gallons of water per load, while an ENERGY STAR certified dishwasher can use as little as 3 gallons per load."

The Citizens' Utility Board broke down the new electricity rates for both ComEd and Ameren customers. Ameren customers are paying $5.22 in monthly meter charges in 2023 (up from $4.76 per month), $5.57 in monthly customer charges (down from $6.45 per month), and slightly more for EDT Cost Recovery and Distribution Delivery charges. Meanwhile, ComEd customers are paying slightly less for standard metering charges (currently $3.10 per month, down from $3.40) but more for IL Electricity Distribution and monthly customer charges.

Coffey is serving his first term representing Illinois' 95th District, his website said. He was appointed to complete Rep. Tim Butler's term, who resigned before the 103rd General Assembly began. Coffey is a restaurateur who managed Saputo's in Springfield and opened Papa Frank's in 2015.