Chicago electricity rates
| Plan Name | Plan Length | Rate |
|---|
| Direct Energy - Live Brighter 6 | 6 months | $0.101 / kWh |
| Public Power - Electric 6 Month Standard Fixed Rate | 6 months | $0.103 / kWh |
| Smart Energy - Green 6 Month Fixed Rate | 6 months | $0.103 / kWh |
| Constellation - 6 Month Home Power Plan | 6 months | $0.104 / kWh |
| Dynegy Energy - Dynegy Secure Value 6 | 6 months | $0.104 / kWh |
| CleanChoice Energy - Clean Pick - 12 Months | 12 months | $0.119 / kWh |
Please note: All rates above are accurate as of 3/18/2025, 7:26:33 AM CDT for ZIP Code 60613. Rates may have changed since this date/time. For the most up to date rates in your area, please enter your zip code above.
Cheapest residential rate in Chicago, Illinois
Several Chicago electricity suppliers offer cheap electricity rates. Affordable options include plans from Smart Energy, Direct Energy and Public Power. Currently, the cheapest available plan is Smart Energy’s Green 6-month Fixed-Rate plan.
When comparing electric rates in Chicago, remember that cheaper isn’t necessarily better. Ultimately, it depends on whether the plan matches your usage level and preferences.
Best Chicago electricity suppliers
In deregulated markets like Chicago, the companies that sell electricity to customers are called retail electric suppliers. Some of the most popular suppliers in Chicago on our marketplace include:
The role of utilities in Chicago
Besides your retail electric supplier, you’ll also need to rely on your local utility company to keep your lights on. The utility company transmits electricity to your home, maintains the power lines and restores power during electrical outages. The utility serving Chicago is ComEd — which is the company you should contact if you have a power outage. You can reach ComEd at 1-800-334-7661.
Price to compare in Chicago, Illinois
When you have the option to buy electricity directly from a utility company or switch to a retail electric supplier, it’s helpful to know the utility’s price to compare (PTC). The PTC provides a base price you can use to compare electric rates in Chicago. For summer 2024, ComEd’s price to compare is 6.9 cents per kWh.
Find the best electricity rates in Chicago
Electricity rates in Chicago, Illinois, fluctuate regularly, so it’s important to compare prices to find the best value. At SaveOnEnergy, our goal is to help you find cheap electricity in Chicago and pick the best plan for your needs. There are only three simple steps.
- Start by entering your ZIP code to find the best electricity rates available near you. You’ll be shown a variety of plans with different contract terms and rates.
- Compare your results and select your plan. To make it simple, you can sign up online. We also have energy experts available to walk you through the process over the phone. Either option takes only a few minutes.
- Once you’ve signed up, your work is done. Your new provider will complete the setup process for you, so you can sit back and enjoy your new plan.
How to switch providers in Chicago
When you live in a deregulated market, it’s smart to shop providers regularly to ensure you have the best plan for your needs. Whether you’re moving to the Windy City or simply want to explore Chicago electricity suppliers, you can compare plans and electricity rates on our marketplace. Simply enter your ZIP code to get started.
Types of plans in Chicago
When you shop for electricity plans in Chicago, you’ll encounter a few different plan types. In the following sections, we’ll explain your basic options. Feel free to call us at the number on your screen with any further questions.
Fixed-rate plans
Fixed-rate plans offer price stability for an extended period. Contracts typically range from 12–36 months, during which time your Chicago electricity rate will stay the same. If you cancel your plan early without moving out of the service area, you’ll usually have to pay an early termination fee (ETF).
Variable-rate plans
If you’d rather have the flexibility to cancel your service anytime, a variable-rate plan may be a good fit. These plans don’t require contracts or ETFs, but your rates may change from month to month.
No-deposit plans
Most Chicago electricity suppliers require a deposit from customers who don’t meet certain credit requirements. However, some providers offer no-deposit plans, allowing you to avoid the extra upfront payment. No-deposit plans are typically prepaid, meaning you’ll pay for electricity in advance and recharge your balance as needed.
Green electricity
Illinois ranks fifth in the nation for wind electricity generation. However, the state’s main renewable energy product is biofuels. That’s liquid fuel made from things such as corn and soybeans. These processes helped the state generate 14% of its electricity from renewable sources.
You can find a percentage of renewable energy in most electricity plans in Chicago. This information is labeled in each plan’s Terms of Service (TOS). It’s even possible to find plans that only use renewable energy from solar or wind sources. Providers offering 100% green energy plans include Clearview Energy, Smart Energy and Spark Energy.