Compare Illinois Electric Prices

The deregulated energy market in Illinois gives residents and businesses the power to choose their electricity and natural gas suppliers. Deregulation creates competition among energy companies to offer you the best electricity rate in Illinois. 

The official electric choice website for the Illinois Commerce Commission is called Plug in Illinois. However, deciding between providers can be confusing. Choose Energy is a free energy marketplace where you can easily find and compare electricity rates and plans in Illinois. Enter your ZIP code to explore options and find the best electricity rates in your area.

In Illinois, you will be automatically enrolled in an energy plan from your utility company and charged a default rate unless you sign up for a plan with another provider. However, this default rate may not be the cheapest energy supplier in Illinois. 

For example, Ameren Illinois is the default utility for the majority of the state. Customers seeking a lower energy rate may search for Just Energy vs. ComEd or another top energy supplier in Illinois. You can check your utility’s default rate, known as the Price to Compare (PTC), to understand whether savings are available with another provider.

The following table shows the PTC from utility companies in Illinois. It also displays current rates you could secure through Choose Energy. Enter your ZIP code on this page to find current Illinois electricity rates in your area.

Although deregulation gives residents more freedom in their electricity service, sorting through all of the options can be overwhelming. Searching for the best Illinois electricity provider takes time. Choose Energy offers resources and guides to help you navigate the energy industry and find the best electric plan for you.

• Switching to a new provider
• Finding the right energy plan
• No-deposit energy plans
• Reducing your energy bill

You can find a few types of energy plans on the Choose Energy marketplace. The exact rate you pay will depend on how much energy you use each month. Understanding your typical monthly usage will help you find the right plan. Before signing up, read each plan’s Electricity Facts Label (EFL) to find the details of your service. Learn more about your energy plan options.

• Fixed-rate plans: The rate you pay for every kilowatt-hour (kWh) of electricity is set and will not change, providing a predictable monthly bill. You will sign a contract that normally lasts between 12–36 months. If you cancel your contract before the term ends, you’ll usually incur an early termination fee (ETF), found on the EFL.
• Variable-rate plans: The rate you pay for electricity changes monthly based on energy market variations. This means you could be charged a higher rate during months when energy demand increases. You don’t have to sign a contract, so you can cancel your plan at any time without a termination fee.
• Prepaid plans: You pay for your energy before you use it. If the funds in your account run low, you’ll receive an alert about your account balance. Some no-deposit plans, such as prepaid plans, don’t require a credit check but may have a higher rate than other options. 
• Green energy plans: Some providers offer plans powered by renewable energy sources, like solar or wind. Green energy plans may provide renewable energy credits (RECs) or source 100% of their power from renewable sources.

Customers can purchase electricity in deregulated areas through their utility or an energy provider. Popular electricity providers in Illinois include Constellation Energy and Public Power, among many others. Regardless of who sells you electricity, your utility is responsible for maintaining power lines and delivering power to your home.

Your utility is determined by where you live, so you can’t choose which one serves your home. You should contact your utility if you experience a power outage, even if you choose to purchase electricity from an alternate energy provider.

Here are the four primary utilities in Illinois and how to contact them: 

• ComEd: 1-800-EDISON-1
• Ameren Illinois: 1-800-755-5000
• Mt. Carmel Public Utility: 1-877-262-7036 
• MidAmerican Energy: 1-888-427-5632

Choose Energy makes it easy to compare electricity providers and plans that fit your energy needs. You can find a plan, compare your options, and sign up for service in three simple steps:

1. Enter your ZIP code. Browse a list of available retail suppliers and plans.
2. Filter your search results. Sort by plan type, contract length, provider, and more. Compare available plans and select the one that meets your needs.
3. Sign up online or over the phone. Your chosen supplier will complete your setup without changing meters or causing an interruption in service.

How much does electricity cost in Illinois?

The average electricity rate in Illinois is 15.73 cents per kWh, and the average monthly energy bill is $113.26, according to data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA).

How do I find the best electricity rates in Illinois?

You can search, compare, and switch providers on the Choose Energy marketplace. Once you’re signed up, your new service usually begins on the next billing cycle (within 30–60 days). Your provider will ensure the transition to your new plan is smooth without interrupting your power.

Is a deposit required for my energy plan?

Many energy suppliers require a deposit if your credit score doesn’t meet a certain threshold. Some energy suppliers will waive the deposit if you enroll in auto-bill pay. However, you can find a variety of prepaid and no-deposit plans on our marketplace by filtering your search. 

How can I lower my electric bill?

There are many ways to lower your energy bills, including performing regular maintenance on your HVAC, installing energy-efficient appliances, and reducing your heating and cooling usage. If these changes don’t lower your bills enough, consider changing to an energy supplier in Illinois with a lower rate. If you are currently on a fixed-rate plan, you may be required to pay an early termination fee (ETF) if you switch before the end of your contract.