Compare Chicago Electric Rates & Plans

In a deregulated market like Chicago, an energy supplier’s main role is to sell electric plans to residential and business consumers. These companies also manage customer account details, accept payments, and track electricity usage. Check out these popular Chicago electricity suppliers on our marketplace:

• Constellation Energy
• Direct Energy
• Public Power
• Smart Energy

Utility companies

Utility companies play an important role in deregulated markets — they deliver power to homes and businesses within their service areas, maintain and repair electrical lines, and respond to power outages. In Chicago, you can choose to buy electricity from either your local utility company at the default rate or sign up for a competitive plan from a retail supplier.

Commonwealth Edison, also known as ComEd, is Chicago’s utility. Regardless of which electric supplier you choose, you’ll need to contact ComEd in the event of a power outage or other electrical emergency. You can reach the utility in either of the following ways:

• Call 1-800-334-7661 (1-800-EDISON-1)
• Report an outage online

Before you start exploring Chicago electricity rates, it helps to understand the baseline rate in your area. The best way to do this is by checking your utility company’s default rate — also known as its price to compare (PTC). Use that price to compare rates from alternative electric companies. ComEd’s current PTC is 9.6 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), valid through May 31, 2026.

When comparing Chicago electricity plans, it helps to understand the different rate structures available. Each type of plan determines how your price per kWh is set and how it may change over time. While the details can vary by supplier, most offers fall into a few common categories.

• Fixed-rate plans: If you want predictable energy costs, a fixed-rate plan can provide stability. With this option, you lock in a set price for the length of your contract, usually 12 to 36 months. The only downside is most fixed-rate plans include an early termination fee (ETF) if you cancel before the contract ends.
• Variable-rate plans: If you want more flexibility, consider a variable-rate plan. These month-to-month agreements let you cancel or switch providers at any time without facing an ETF. However, your rate isn’t guaranteed and can fluctuate monthly with the market price of electricity.
• Prepaid and no-deposit plans: Some electric companies in Chicago require a deposit if you don’t meet certain credit requirements. If you’d prefer to avoid the extra upfront cost, you may be able to choose a no-deposit or prepaid plan. These options typically allow you to fund your account in advance and add more money as your balance runs low.
• Renewable energy plans: In Illinois, renewable resources (like wind and solar) generate 16% of the state’s power, according to the latest data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA). That means Chicagoans have plenty of options for powering their homes with green energy. Enter your ZIP code on this page and filter the results for green energy to compare plans.

Deregulation gives you plenty of choices, but navigating all of your options can be overwhelming. Choose Energy makes it easy to compare rates from multiple electric companies in Chicago and sign up with a new provider. Here’s how to use our marketplace to find the best plan for your needs:

1. Enter your ZIP code: You’ll get a list of current Chicago electric rates from today’s best electricity suppliers.
2. Compare rates and plans: Use the filters to find plans that match your specific criteria. You can filter by provider, price, green energy, no-deposit plans, and more.
3. Sign up in minutes: When you’re ready to choose an energy plan, you can sign up online in just a few minutes. If you’re unsure, call the number on your screen to talk to one of our energy experts. From there, you can sit back as your new Chicago electricity provider handles the setup or transfer with no interruption to your service.

Whether you’re new to the Windy City or simply thinking about changing electricity suppliers, switching providers in Chicago is a straightforward process. By comparing available plans on the Choose Energy marketplace, you can review rates, contract lengths, and other plan features to find the best fit. Enter your ZIP code on this page to see the electricity plans available in your area.

What’s the best energy provider in Chicago?

The best electric company in Chicago depends on your energy needs and goals. To compare options based on plan features, term length, usage level, and more, enter your ZIP code on Choose Energy.

What happens if you don’t buy from a supplier?

If you don’t pick a supplier in Chicago, you’ll receive power from ComEd, the local utility company. You’ll get the utility’s default rate and make payments directly to ComEd.

How can I lower my utility bill in Chicago?

One way to lower your utility bill in Chicago is by reducing your energy consumption. Try energy-saving strategies such as maintaining your HVAC, using it less often, sealing drafty windows and doors, installing a smart thermostat, and taking shorter showers.