Illinois price to compare
When you’re shopping for a new electricity plan in Illinois, you can compare rates from competing suppliers in your area to find the best option. You can also choose a standard plan from your utility company with the default rate, known as the price to compare (PTC). A good way to shop for the best deal is to compare your utility’s PTC to independent suppliers’ rates. Here are the PTC rates from Illinois’ biggest utility companies.
| Utility | Price to Compare | PTC valid through |
|---|---|---|
| ComEd | 9.66 cents per kWh | May 31, 2026 |
| Ameren Illinois | 8.77 cents/kWh (0-800 kWh)7.85 cents/kWh (>800 kWh) | May 31, 2026 |
Enter your ZIP code on our marketplace to discover whether you can find a cheaper rate from a local energy provider.
Types of energy plans in Illinois
When comparing electricity rates on Choose Energy, you’ll find a few common types of energy plans. The exact rate you pay will depend on your chosen plan and how much energy you use each month. Before signing up, be sure to read each plan’s Terms of Service (TOS) to understand the details of your contract.
- Fixed-rate plans: The rate you pay for energy is set for the duration of your contract, typically 12-36 months. Many consumers choose this plan type because it can lead to more predictable monthly energy bills. If you cancel or switch plans before your term ends, you may incur an early termination fee (ETF).
- Variable-rate plans: With this plan type, the rate you pay for electricity changes monthly based on market variations. You may have a cheaper rate during months of low demand, but prices can rise when energy demand increases. A perk of this plan is the ability to cancel at any time without paying an ETF.
- Green energy plans: If you want to lower your carbon footprint, you can also shop for green energy plans sourced from renewables like solar power or wind energy.
Enter your ZIP code to explore these popular plans today.
Understanding deregulation in Illinois
Illinois deregulated its energy market in 1997, giving residents and businesses the freedom to choose their electricity supplier instead of being limited to the local utility. Deregulation creates competition among energy companies and can lead to cheaper electric rates and better terms.
Plug In Illinois is the official electric choice website run by the Illinois Commerce Commission. Choose Energy is a free, independent energy marketplace where shoppers can easily compare electricity rates in Illinois and sign up for their preferred plan.
Energy suppliers in Illinois
Energy suppliers sell electricity plans to customers and manage accounts. They can also answer questions related to your energy plan. You can use Choose Energy to discover Illinois’ top providers, such as:
Utility providers in Illinois
Utility companies, on the other hand, deliver energy to your home or business, monitor and maintain the electrical infrastructure, and respond to power outages. If you experience a power outage in your area, contact your utility company to report it and receive updates about when service will be restored. There are two major utility companies in Illinois:
- ComEd
- Call 1-800-334-7661
- Use their online outage reporter
- Ameren Illinois
- Call 1-800-755-5000
- Use their outage center
Average electric bill in Illinois
The average electric bill in Illinois is currently $126.89 per month. You can estimate your energy bill by multiplying your electricity rate by your monthly usage. According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), Illinois residents typically use 693 kWh per month, and the state’s average energy price is 18.31 cents per kWh.
Find the right energy plan with Choose Energy
Choose Energy makes it easy to find the best plan and provider to fit your needs. Here’s how to sign up for service in three simple steps:
- Enter your ZIP code. Browse a list of available retail energy suppliers and plans.
- Filter your search results. Sort by plan type, contract length, price, provider, and more.
- Sign up in minutes. Once you find the right plan, you can sign up online or over the phone in minutes. Your chosen supplier will complete your setup without interrupting service.
Frequently asked questions about Illinois energy
How do I find the best electricity rates in Illinois?
You can search, compare, and switch providers on marketplaces like Choose Energy. Filter for your individual needs, such as specific suppliers, contract lengths, and green energy options.
How can I lower my electric bill?
The best way to lower your energy bill is to use less electricity. Start by cleaning your HVAC system, installing LED light bulbs and energy-efficient appliances, and setting your thermostat to a lower temperature.
What happens if you don’t buy from a supplier?
In Illinois, if you don’t buy from a supplier, you’ll be enrolled in a default plan from your utility company at the PTC rate.
Where do I find my plan documents?
You can easily access energy plan documents when shopping on our marketplace. Below your chosen plan, select “more details” and “access the TOS.”