ComEd (Commonwealth Edison) provides electricity service to Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area. The local climate significantly impacts energy costs throughout the year.
12.5¢/kWh
Average residential rate
The average Chicago residential customer pays approximately 12.5¢ per kilowatt-hour. Your actual rate depends on your specific rate plan, usage tier, and time of use.
| Plan | Base Rate | Peak Hours | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basic Electric Service (BES) | ~9.6¢/kWh | N/A | Customers with predictable, consistent energy usage patterns who prefer a stable rate. |
| Hourly Pricing | Varies hourly | Varies based on real-time market prices, typically afternoons and early evenings. | Customers who can shift heavy electricity usage (like EV charging or running large appliances) to off-peak, lower-priced hours. |
| Time-of-Day (TOD) Pricing | Varies by time block | On-Peak (varies, e.g., 2 PM - 7 PM) | Customers who can consistently avoid using major appliances during peak hours and can shift usage to off-peak times like late nights. |
| Budget Billing | N/A | N/A | Customers who want a predictable monthly electric bill, as this plan averages their estimated annual cost into even monthly payments. |
Basic Electric Service (BES): Customers with predictable, consistent energy usage patterns who prefer a stable rate.
Hourly Pricing: Customers who can shift heavy electricity usage (like EV charging or running large appliances) to off-peak, lower-priced hours.
Time-of-Day (TOD) Pricing: Customers who can consistently avoid using major appliances during peak hours and can shift usage to off-peak times like late nights.
Compared to Joliet (14.16¢/kWh), Chicago residents pay approximately 1.7¢/kWh less on average.
*Rates shown are approximate and subject to change. Verify current rates at comed.com.*
Chicago's climate significantly impacts energy costs throughout the year.
| Season | Typical Bill Range | Primary Driver |
|---|---|---|
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | $150-$300 | Air conditioning |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | $80-$180 | Heating |
| Spring/Fall | $70-$120 | Baseline usage |
Summer bills in Chicago can reach $300, while residents in Joliet typically see summer peaks around $150.
*Bill estimates based on average Chicago household usage of 1,100 kWh/month.*
ComEd (Commonwealth Edison) rates in Chicago have changed over the past several years:
Recent rate adjustments have been approved by the state utility commission.
ComEd (Commonwealth Edison) serves Chicago and surrounding areas in Illinois.
Common questions about ComEd (Commonwealth Edison) service in Chicago, Illinois — including current rates, billing, outage reporting, and how to verify your bill is accurate.
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The "Total Amount Due" on your bill
Usually labeled "Total kWh" or "Usage"
Disclaimer: This tool provides a rough estimate based on typical residential rates. It does not account for fixed charges, demand charges, time-of-use pricing, taxes, fees, or other bill components. Results are for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial or legal advice. We cannot determine billing accuracy without reviewing your full bill.
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