Compare electricity and natural gas prices for Illinois

Are you moving to Illinois? Illinois is one of 15 states in which energy is deregulated, meaning you’ll be able to choose your energy supplier instead of going with the area’s default utility.

According to a recent ChooseEnergy.com Google survey, about two-thirds of Illinois residents don’t know what energy deregulation is or how it affects the state, and are missing the opportunity to make a smart financial choice.

Only 9.5 percent of residents surveyed say they exercise energy choice, despite the potential savings. That’s why we’ve compiled the following list of questions – and answers – about energy deregulation in Illinois. And yes, energy choice is for both newcomers to Illinois and longtime residents.

Energy deregulation in Illinois sounds more complicated than it is. Just substitute the word “choice” for “deregulation” and the concept is clear. In Illinois, some residents have the right to choose their electricity and natural gas providers rather than being stuck paying rates from traditional utilities.

Energy deregulation means that suppliers must offer competitive electricity prices to entice customers. Comparing the rates available in your area can help you decide which plan is best for you.

Factors include price, renewable energy mix, and contract length. In some cases the traditional utility may not be the most cost-effective option, and energy deregulation allows you to choose the company that is.

With ChooseEnergy.com, you can compare the plans available in your area. Just enter your ZIP code above to get started.

It isn’t difficult at all! Pick the plan you like, sign up with your new supplier, and they’ll take care of the rest. It is your supplier’s responsibility to talk to the utility company about switching. There should be no interruption of power, and you won’t need to be home for the switch to be made.

The utility stills maintains the infrastructure used to deliver your energy, so if you have an emergency or power outage you’ll want to contact them, not your supplier.

No and no. Your electricity will still be delivered by ComEd or Ameren. It will come over the same lines and go through the same meter. Your bill also will still come from ComEd or Ameren. The only difference is the company that supplies the electricity – and the price you pay for it.

Your supplier should send you a notice at least 30 days before your plan is up. You can then choose a new plan. If you don’t, your supplier could renew you at a different rate.

Other questions? Visit our FAQs.

(Last updated 6/17/2019)