ComEd Illinois Electricity Rates: Complete Guide to Bills and Savings

ComEd Illinois Electricity Rates: Complete Guide to Bills and Savings

Commonwealth Edison (ComEd) serves approximately 4 million customers across northern Illinois, including the Chicago metropolitan area. Understanding how ComEd structures its rates can help you manage your electricity costs effectively.

ComEd Rate Structure

ComEd operates as a delivery company in Illinois's deregulated electricity market. Your bill includes two main components:

Delivery Charges: These cover the cost of maintaining the electrical grid and delivering power to your home. ComEd sets these rates, which are approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission.

Supply Charges: The cost of the actual electricity you use. You can purchase supply from ComEd or choose an alternative retail electric supplier (ARES).

Current Rate Components

• Customer Charge: Fixed monthly fee around $12-15
• Distribution Delivery Charge: Per-kWh charge for grid maintenance
• Transmission Services Charge: Cost of high-voltage transmission
• Purchased Electricity Charge: If using ComEd supply
• Environmental Cost Recovery: Renewable energy program costs
• Taxes and Fees: State and local taxes

Time-of-Use Options

ComEd offers hourly pricing through its Real-Time Pricing Program, where rates vary based on wholesale market prices. This can save money if you can shift usage to off-peak hours (typically overnight and weekends).

Illinois Energy Assistance

• LIHEAP: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
• PIPP: Percentage of Income Payment Plan
• ComEd CARE: Customer Assistance and Relief for Electricity

Average Rates

Illinois residential rates average around 15.2 cents per kWh, slightly above the national average. Chicago-area rates tend to be higher due to urban infrastructure costs.

Tips for Saving on Your ComEd Bill

1. Consider hourly pricing if you can shift usage to off-peak hours
2. Compare alternative suppliers but watch for variable rate traps
3. Enroll in budget billing for predictable monthly payments
4. Take advantage of rebates for energy-efficient appliances