Although it can sound confusing, “deregulation” just means that instead of having to buy your energy from your local utility company, you have the power to choose from a variety of retail suppliers. The Illinois energy market was first deregulated in 1997, which allowed private suppliers to enter the market. By 2008, customers across Illinois had a wide range of options. Because there are so many suppliers and rate plans from which to choose, you will need to carefully compare ComEd electric rates to those of other suppliers to make sure you choose the right plan for your family.
Deregulation is not the same thing as “no regulations.” All public utilities in Illinois are overseen by the Illinois Commerce Commission. If you have any issues with your supplier that can’t be resolved, you can contact the Commission for help.