Chicago Residents Can Shop Their Electricity — Most Don’t Know It

Chicago electricity deregulation is one of the most valuable — and most overlooked — consumer rights in Illinois. If you live in Chicago, you can shop your electricity provider instead of defaulting to ComEd’s standard rate. Most residents have no idea this is even possible. Here’s everything you need to know about Illinois electricity deregulation and how to use it to save money.

If you live in Chicago, you can shop your electricity — but most residents have no idea this is possible. Thanks to Illinois electricity deregulation, Chicago residents have the legal right to choose their electricity supplier instead of just accepting whatever rate ComEd charges. This guide explains exactly how Chicago electricity deregulation works and how you can use it to save money.

Illinois deregulated in 1997. ComEd still delivers your electricity and handles outages — but the supply portion of your bill? That’s shoppable. You can choose from dozens of licensed Alternative Retail Electric Suppliers (ARES) through the Illinois Commerce Commission.

A few things Chicago residents should know:

• ⚡ If your electricity is in your name (not buried in rent), you can switch — even as a renter
• ⚡ Natural gas is also deregulated in Illinois — if you heat with Nicor or Peoples Gas, you can shop that too
• ⚡ Spring is the best time to lock in a fixed rate before heating season bids spike supply prices
• ⚡ Avoid signing door-to-door — always review independently before enrolling

Both electricity and natural gas are shoppable. Both are worth reviewing annually.

How Chicago Electricity Deregulation Works: Shop in 4 Steps

Step 1: Find Your ComEd Account Number

Your ComEd account number is printed on your monthly bill. You’ll need this when enrolling with an alternative supplier under Illinois electricity deregulation. Your delivery service — including outage response — stays with ComEd throughout.

Step 2: Compare Licensed Suppliers

The Illinois Commerce Commission’s Plug In Illinois website lists all licensed ARES suppliers serving the ComEd territory. When comparing Chicago electricity rates, focus on the per-kWh supply price, contract length, and whether the rate is fixed or variable. Fixed-rate plans give you budget certainty; variable rates can change monthly with wholesale prices.

Step 3: Read the Full Contract

Before enrolling with any supplier, read the terms carefully. Key details to check: rate per kWh, contract term (6–24 months is typical), early termination fee if any, and what happens at contract end (auto-renew or revert to ComEd). Illinois electricity deregulation rules require suppliers to disclose all terms clearly.

Step 4: Enroll and Confirm the Switch

Enrollment takes 10–15 minutes online or by phone. ComEd will be notified, and your next bill will show the new supplier’s supply rate. There is no service interruption — your lights stay on the entire time.

Is Chicago Electricity Deregulation Worth It?

Chicago electricity deregulation has delivered real savings for residents who shop carefully. Those who lock in a fixed rate during low-price seasons can save $15–$40 per month versus ComEd’s standard pricing. Avoid variable-rate plans, always verify the supplier’s license with the ICC, and set a reminder to shop again before your contract renews.

Use MyUtilitySearch to compare electricity plans in your Chicago zip code and find the best available rate today.

FAQs: Chicago Electricity Deregulation Explained

Can renters participate in Chicago electricity deregulation? Yes — if electricity is billed in your name, you can switch suppliers regardless of whether you rent or own. Many Chicago renters have saved money through Illinois electricity deregulation without needing landlord approval.

Is Chicago electricity deregulation safe? All Alternative Retail Electric Suppliers (ARES) are licensed by the Illinois Commerce Commission. Your electricity delivery remains with ComEd, so there is no risk of losing power. The ICC also provides a complaint process if a supplier acts improperly.

How often should I shop my Chicago electricity rate? Experts recommend reviewing your electricity plan annually, and especially when you receive a contract renewal notice. Chicago electricity deregulation means you always have the option to switch to a better rate — your loyalty to any supplier is not required.