Electricity Rates in Illinois
Average residential electricity cost, utility comparison, and solar savings potential for Illinois homeowners.
Illinois Electricity Cost Overview
The average residential electricity rate in Illinois is $0.16 per kWh, which is 0% below the national average of $0.16/kWh.Illinois homeowners pay an average of $133 per month for electricity, based on typical usage of 833 kWh per month.
Electricity rates in this state have been trending upward over the past decade, following national patterns of rising energy costs. As rates continue to increase, solar panels become an increasingly attractive way for homeowners to lock in their energy costs and achieve long-term savings.
Major Electric Utilities in Illinois
| Utility Company | Avg Rate ($/kWh) | Customers | Est. Monthly Bill |
|---|---|---|---|
| ComEd (Commonwealth Edison) | $0.16 | 4M | $133 |
| Ameren Illinois | $0.14 | 1.2M | $117 |
| MidAmerican Energy | $0.13 | 200K | $108 |
Compare & Shop Electricity Rates in Illinois
Illinois has a deregulated electricity market. This means residents can choose their electricity supplier and shop for the cheapest rates available. Your local utility still delivers power to your home, but you pick who generates it — and at what price.
How to Find the Lowest Rates in Illinois
- Compare suppliers: Visit Illinois's Public Utilities Commission website for approved electricity suppliers and current rate offers.
- Fixed vs. variable rates: Fixed-rate plans protect you from price spikes. Variable rates may start lower but fluctuate with the market.
- Check contract terms: Watch for early termination fees, promotional rates that increase, and monthly service charges.
- Consider solar: Rather than switching suppliers year after year, solar panels generate electricity at a fixed cost for 25+ years — often the cheapest long-term option.
The current average rate in Illinois is $0.16/kWh. By comparing suppliers or going solar, many Illinois homeowners cut their monthly bill from $133 to under $40 per month.
How Solar Compares to Illinois Electricity Rates
Without Solar
- Monthly bill: $133
- Annual cost: $1,596
- 25-year cost: $39,900
- Rate trend: Rising 2-5% annually
With Solar
- Monthly savings: $109
- Annual savings: $1,308
- 25-year savings: $35,000
- Rate: Locked in for 25+ years
Electricity Rates FAQ - Illinois
The average residential electricity rate in Illinois is $0.16 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is 0% below the national average of $0.16/kWh. The average monthly electric bill is approximately $133.
With solar panels, Illinois homeowners can reduce their electricity costs by approximately 82%, saving around $109 per month or $35,000 over 25 years. The 30% federal tax credit further reduces the upfront cost.
The largest electric utilities in Illinois include ComEd (Commonwealth Edison), Ameren Illinois, MidAmerican Energy. Rates vary between utilities, so your exact cost depends on your provider and usage.
Yes, electricity rates in Illinois have been increasing over time, following national trends of 2-5% annual increases. This upward trend makes solar panels an increasingly attractive investment since they lock in your energy costs for 25+ years.
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