Best 10 Electric Suppliers in Illinois

Choosing the right electric supplier in Illinois is crucial for both residential and commercial customers. With the deregulation of the energy market, consumers have the opportunity to select from a variety of suppliers, each offering different rates, plans, and services. This article will guide you through the top ten electric suppliers in Illinois for 2025, providing insights into their offerings and market positions.

Overview

As of 2025, the Illinois electricity market serves over 12 million residents and numerous businesses, solidifying its position as one of the largest energy markets in the United States. The state has made significant strides toward renewable energy adoption, with a mandate requiring that 25% of overall electric sales come from renewable sources by 2025. This includes ambitious targets for solar and wind energy, aiming for at least 4,300 megawatts of new solar and wind power to be developed by 2030.

Top 10 Electric Suppliers in Illinois

Commonwealth Edison (ComEd)

Commonwealth Edison, commonly known as ComEd, is the largest electric utility in Illinois and a key player in the energy delivery sector, primarily serving the Chicago metropolitan area and much of Northern Illinois. As a subsidiary of Exelon Corporation, ComEd is integral to providing reliable electricity to over 3.8 million customers, representing approximately 70% of the state’s population.

Business Type: Electric utility and energy delivery services

Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, USA

Main Markets: Northern Illinois, including Chicago and surrounding suburbs

Establishment Year: 1907

Certificates/Awards: ComEd has received numerous accolades for its commitment to sustainability and innovation, including recognition for its energy efficiency programs and grid modernization efforts.

ComEd operates a vast network of over 90,000 miles of power lines across an 11,400-square-mile service area, investing more than $5 billion since 2001 to enhance its electrical transmission and distribution systems. This modernization includes the implementation of advanced technologies like smart grids and energy efficiency programs that empower customers to manage their energy use effectively.

A key aspect of ComEd’s innovation is its Grid Labs, which focus on researching and developing technologies that improve grid resilience and reliability, including smart grid solutions and cybersecurity measures. Their Energy Efficiency Program has successfully saved over 3,331 GWh, promoting energy conservation among residential and commercial users. ComEd’s commitment to safe, reliable service and technological advancements positions it as a leader in the electric utility industry, dedicated to meeting the evolving needs of its customers and supporting environmental sustainability.

Ameren Illinois

Ameren Illinois is a leading regulated energy company, recognized as the second largest utility in the state. It plays a crucial role in delivering both electric and natural gas services to a vast customer base across central and southern Illinois.

Business Type: Electric and natural gas utility services

Headquarters: Collinsville, Illinois, USA

Main Markets: Central and southern Illinois, covering approximately 43,700 square miles

Establishment Year: 1907

Certificates/Awards: Recognized for excellence in energy delivery and sustainability initiatives, including awards related to smart grid technology and community involvement.

Ameren Illinois serves over 1.2 million electric and 816,000 natural gas customers across 1,200+ communities, supported by a robust infrastructure of 4,600 miles of transmission lines, 46,000 miles of distribution lines, and 1,500 substations. This network ensures reliable energy delivery and effective outage management, bolstered by significant investments in smart technology such as automated switches and advanced monitoring systems that enhance operational efficiency.

Central to Ameren’s strategy are innovation and sustainability, with ongoing investments in renewable energy integration and infrastructure resilience against climate impacts. The company’s energy efficiency programs aim to reduce consumption and costs for low- to moderate-income households, while the Ameren Cares program underscores its commitment to community engagement through charitable initiatives. By focusing on delivering safe, reliable energy and promoting environmental stewardship, Ameren Illinois positions itself as a leader in sustainable energy solutions that enhance the quality of life for its customers.

MidAmerican Energy

MidAmerican Energy Company is a leading energy provider in the United States, recognized for its commitment to delivering reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible electricity and natural gas services. As a subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway Energy, MidAmerican has established itself as a key player in the energy sector, particularly in the Midwest.

Business Type: Electric and natural gas utility services

Headquarters: Des Moines, Iowa, USA

Main Markets: Iowa, Illinois, South Dakota, Nebraska

Establishment Year: 1995

Certificates/Awards: Military Friendly Employer Award (2017), recognized for leadership in renewable energy generation

MidAmerican Energy serves nearly 800,000 electric and gas customers, boasting a diversified generation portfolio that includes wind, coal, natural gas, nuclear, hydroelectric, and biomass sources. As a national leader in renewable energy, it holds the largest installed wind capacity among rate-regulated utilities in the U.S., underscoring its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship through strategic investments in wind projects.

Dedicated to innovation, MidAmerican employs an “all-of-the-above” energy strategy that combines renewable resources with traditional generation to ensure reliability and affordability. This approach positions the company as one of the lowest-cost electricity providers while enhancing grid reliability through advanced infrastructure and smart grid technologies. Overall, MidAmerican Energy delivers high-quality energy solutions with competitive pricing, making it a trusted partner for residential, commercial, and industrial clients.

Constellation Energy

Constellation Energy Corporation is a prominent leader in the energy sector, recognized as the largest producer of clean, carbon-free energy in the United States. The company plays a crucial role in the transition to sustainable energy, providing innovative solutions and services to a diverse range of customers, including residential, commercial, and public sector clients.

Business Type: Energy production and supply, including electricity and natural gas services

Headquarters: Baltimore, Maryland, USA

Main Markets: Continental United States, including major markets in the Mid-Atlantic, Midwest, New York, and ERCOT regions

Establishment Year: 2022 (as an independent entity following a split from Exelon)

Certificates/Awards: Community Partnership Award from the Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD)

Constellation Energy operates a diverse generation fleet that includes nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, and solar facilities, boasting a capacity of over 32,400 megawatts to power approximately 16 million homes. The company contributes about 10% of the nation’s clean energy output and maintains an annual production rate that is nearly 90% carbon-free, actively aiding customers in achieving their climate goals through innovative solutions.

As a leader in technological advancements, Constellation Energy utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance operational efficiency in its nuclear fleet, significantly reducing costs while upholding high safety standards. Committed to achieving 100% carbon-free generation by 2040, the company effectively combines a diverse energy portfolio with cutting-edge technology and community engagement, delivering exceptional value while spearheading the transition to a sustainable energy future.

Direct Energy

Direct Energy is one of North America’s largest retail providers of electricity and natural gas, serving millions of residential and commercial customers. With a strong commitment to delivering innovative energy solutions, Direct Energy has established itself as a trusted name in the energy sector, known for its competitive pricing and exceptional customer service.

Business Type: Retail electricity and natural gas provider, energy-related services

Headquarters: Houston, Texas, USA

Main Markets: United States (50 states and the District of Columbia) and Canada (eight provinces)

Establishment Year: 1986

Certificates/Awards: Various industry recognitions for customer service excellence and energy efficiency solutions

Direct Energy provides a diverse array of energy products, including fixed-rate electricity, natural gas, and renewable options across the U.S. and Canada. With an annual revenue of approximately $2.7 billion and a workforce exceeding 2,000 employees, the company supports a vast customer base through regional offices and investments in advanced technologies.

A cornerstone of Direct Energy’s success is its focus on sustainability and innovation. The company has significantly integrated renewable energy into its offerings, enhancing energy management solutions through its acquisition of Panoramic Power, which utilizes cloud-based analytics for real-time energy consumption insights. This strategy not only optimizes energy use but also drives cost savings and efficiency, solidifying Direct Energy’s position as a leader in transforming North America’s energy landscape.

Green Mountain Energy

Green Mountain Energy is a pioneering leader in the renewable energy sector, recognized as the nation’s longest-serving renewable energy retailer. Founded in 1997, the company has established itself as a trusted provider of 100% clean energy solutions, specializing in wind and solar power, for both residential and commercial customers across the United States.

Business Type: Renewable energy provider specializing in electricity from wind and solar sources

Headquarters: Houston, Texas, United States

Main Markets: Texas, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania

Establishment Year: 1997

Certificates/Awards: 2024 U.S. Customer Value Leadership Award by Frost & Sullivan; recognized for advancing sustainability and reducing carbon footprints.

Green Mountain Energy excels in its commitment to sustainability and customer-centric approach, offering a diverse range of 100% renewable electricity plans. Serving hundreds of thousands across deregulated markets, the company empowers customers to reduce their carbon footprint through innovative programs like the Renewable Rewards Plan and Sun Club initiative, which promote community sustainability.

With over 107 billion pounds of carbon emissions reduced through its renewable offerings, Green Mountain Energy operates under a carbon-neutral model and invests in technologies that enhance energy efficiency. Its value proposition lies in providing cost-effective green energy solutions that meet the rising demand for sustainable living, allowing customers to access reliable electricity while contributing to a cleaner energy future.

AEP Energy

AEP Energy is a prominent competitive retail electric supplier, part of the American Electric Power (AEP) family, one of the largest electric utility companies in the United States. With a strong focus on customer service and innovative energy solutions, AEP Energy provides reliable electricity to residential and commercial customers across multiple states.

Business Type: Retail electric supplier

Headquarters: Columbus, Ohio, United States

Main Markets: Ohio, Illinois, Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Washington D.C.

Establishment Year: 2000

Certificates/Awards: Recognized for excellence in customer service and innovation in energy solutions.

AEP Energy’s strengths lie in its extensive experience in the energy sector and its commitment to providing tailored energy solutions that address diverse customer needs. As a subsidiary of AEP, the company leverages a robust infrastructure, including one of the largest electricity transmission systems in the U.S., ensuring efficient and reliable service delivery. AEP Energy offers a comprehensive suite of electricity supply products aimed at enhancing energy management and reducing costs for both businesses and homeowners.

At the forefront of renewable energy initiatives, AEP Energy actively expands its offerings in wind and solar power while utilizing advanced technologies like smart grid solutions and energy storage systems to improve operational efficiency. By focusing on sustainability and customer engagement, AEP Energy positions itself as a trusted partner for effective energy management. Ultimately, the company delivers reliable, affordable electricity that aligns with customers’ immediate needs and broader goals of environmental responsibility and cost efficiency.

Spark Energy

Spark Energy, Inc. is a leading independent retail energy services company, recognized for providing innovative energy solutions to residential and commercial customers across the United States. With a strong commitment to customer choice and sustainability, Spark Energy has established itself as a key player in the competitive energy market.

Business Type: Retail energy services, electricity and natural gas supply

Headquarters: Houston, Texas, USA

Main Markets: United States (operating in 19 states and serving 100 utility territories)

Establishment Year: 1999

Certificates/Awards: Various industry recognitions for customer service excellence and sustainable energy practices

Spark Energy provides a diverse array of energy products, including fixed-rate plans and green options, supported by a robust infrastructure that generates $674.5 million in annual revenue. With a dedicated team of 319 professionals, the company effectively expands its market presence through strategic acquisitions, enhancing its operational capabilities.

Committed to sustainability, Spark Energy invests in technology to improve service delivery and customer engagement, ensuring clients benefit from stable energy costs while contributing to a greener future. Its value proposition centers on delivering reliable, tailored energy solutions that emphasize quality service, competitive pricing, and sustainable practices, positioning Spark Energy as a leader in the evolving energy landscape.

XOOM Energy

XOOM Energy is a leading independent energy retailer that specializes in providing electricity, natural gas, and renewable energy solutions to residential and commercial customers across North America. With a strong presence in deregulated markets, XOOM Energy has established itself as one of the fastest-growing energy service providers in the industry.

Business Type: Retail energy supplier

Headquarters: Huntersville, North Carolina, USA

Main Markets: United States (19 states plus Washington D.C.) and Canada (Alberta and Ontario)

Establishment Year: 2011

Certificates/Awards: Ranked as the Fastest-Growing Private Energy Company by Inc. Magazine in 2015; recognized as the Retail Energy Provider of the Year in 2016 by Energy Marketing Conferences, LLC.

XOOM Energy operates in over 100 utility markets, providing a variety of energy plans tailored to customer needs, including fixed-rate plans for price stability, variable-rate plans for flexibility, and SimpleClean renewable options that ensure a portion of electricity comes from sustainable sources. The SteadyLock plan offers predictable monthly billing, enhancing customer convenience.

With a focus on transparency and ease of switching, XOOM Energy has no enrollment fees and ensures seamless transitions for new customers. Their XOOM Xtras loyalty program rewards engagement with discounts. Overall, XOOM Energy delivers reliable, competitively priced energy solutions while promoting sustainability, empowering consumers to choose their energy plans and positively impacting their communities.

Realgy Energy Services

Realgy Energy Services is a leading independent retail energy supplier specializing in the procurement and management of electricity and natural gas for residential and commercial customers. With a strong commitment to providing competitive pricing and exceptional customer service, Realgy has established itself as a trusted alternative energy supplier across several states.

Business Type: Retail Energy Supplier (Electricity and Natural Gas)

Headquarters: West Hartford, Connecticut, United States

Main Markets: Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan

Establishment Year: 1999

Certificates/Awards: Approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission, Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission, and Public Service Commission of Ohio; Dun & Bradstreet registered.

Realgy Energy Services leverages extensive market experience, serving thousands of accounts under the Customer Choice Program, which allows customers to choose their energy supplier while retaining utility services. Their innovative pricing plans—Fixed Pricing, Managed Pricing, and Guaranteed Savings—ensure reliability and cost-effectiveness, catering to diverse customer needs.

Focusing on technology, Realgy employs advanced tools for real-time pricing and tailored proposals, enabling informed client decisions. Their commitment to transparency and education is reflected in a platform for monitoring energy usage and costs. Realgy’s unique value propositions, including personalized plans and a pricing guarantee, enhance customer loyalty and solidify their reputation as a reliable energy partner.

Comparison of Electric Manufacturers

Understanding Electricity Rates

Understanding electricity rates involves recognizing various pricing structures, types of rate plans, and their impact on your electricity bill. The main types of electricity rates include:

• Flat Rates: A consistent price per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which may not reflect actual generation costs at different times.
• Time-of-Use (TOU) Rates: Prices vary by time of day, with higher rates during peak hours and lower rates during off-peak times, encouraging consumers to shift usage to cheaper periods.
• Tiered Rates: Different prices based on consumption levels, incentivizing energy conservation as costs increase with higher usage.
• Demand Charges: Applicable to some commercial customers, these charges are based on peak electricity demand rather than total consumption, significantly impacting bills for high-energy businesses.

Several key factors contribute to fluctuations in electricity prices:

• Fuel Costs: The prices of fuels like natural gas and coal directly influence electricity rates; rising fuel costs typically lead to higher electricity prices.
• Weather Conditions: Extreme weather can spike demand (e.g., heatwaves) and drive up prices, while favorable conditions can enhance renewable generation and lower costs.
• Infrastructure Costs: The expenses related to building and maintaining power plants and transmission lines significantly affect pricing. Upgrades and repairs due to damage also play a role.
• Regulatory Environment: Varying state regulations impact pricing structures; deregulated areas allow competition among providers, while regulated monopolies set prices through public commissions.

To determine your rate, check your most recent electricity bill for specific terms like “TOU” or “tiered” rates. You can also visit your utility’s website for detailed information about your rate plan or contact your provider directly for clarity and potential savings options.

By understanding these elements, consumers can navigate their electricity bills more effectively and make informed decisions about energy usage and savings strategies.

How to Switch Electric Suppliers

Switching electric suppliers can be straightforward and may help you save on energy bills. To initiate the process, gather essential information from your current energy bill, including your postcode, current supplier and tariff names, annual energy consumption in kilowatt hours (kWh), and your current rate per unit of energy. This data will facilitate comparisons between different suppliers.

Next, compare energy prices using platforms like Uswitch or MoneySavingExpert, which display available tariffs based on your location and usage. Pay attention to rates (fixed vs. variable), customer reviews, and any additional features such as green energy options. Also, check for exit fees associated with your current contract that could influence your decision.

Once you’ve found a better deal, choose a new supplier by contacting them directly or using an auto-switching service, which simplifies the process. Provide the necessary information to your new supplier and confirm the switch date, which can be immediate or scheduled for later; the entire switching process typically takes up to five working days.

After the switch is complete, monitor your final bill from the old supplier, which they must send within six weeks. If you have overpaid, they are required to refund any credit balance within ten working days of issuing the final bill.

Consider additional factors such as your debt status; you can switch if any owed amount is less than 28 days old. If you have a smart meter, the transition should be seamless as it automatically sends readings to the new supplier. Lastly, remember that there is usually a 14-day cooling-off period after agreeing to a new contract during which you can cancel without penalty.

By following these steps and considerations, you can effectively switch electric suppliers and potentially lower your energy costs while ensuring a smooth transition.

What is Electric?

Electric refers to anything related to, powered by, or producing electricity. This fundamental concept encompasses various aspects of modern technology and natural phenomena, from powering devices to generating energy.

Key Characteristics of Electric

Powered by Electricity

Electric devices operate using electrical energy rather than other power sources. Common examples include:

• Electric vehicles (cars, buses, trains)
• Household appliances (refrigerators, washing machines, air conditioners)
• Personal electronics (smartphones, laptops, tablets)

Producing or Transmitting Electricity

Electric components generate or conduct electrical current. Key elements in this category are:

• Generators (hydroelectric, wind turbines, solar panels)
• Transmission infrastructure (power lines, transformers, substations)
• Home electrical systems (wiring, outlets, circuit breakers)

Electrical Phenomena

The term “electric” also applies to various electrical concepts and measurements:

Applications and Significance of Electric Technology

Power Source

Electricity serves as a versatile and essential power source for modern society, enabling the functioning of:

1. Residential systems (lighting, heating, cooling)
2. Industrial machinery and processes
3. Transportation networks (electric trains, charging stations for EVs)
4. Communication systems (internet infrastructure, cell towers)

Electronics and Innovation

Electric principles form the foundation of electronic circuits and components, driving advancements in:

• Microprocessors and computer technology
• Telecommunications devices
• Medical equipment and diagnostic tools
• Renewable energy technologies

The Future of Electric Technology

As we face global challenges like climate change and energy scarcity, electric technologies are at the forefront of solutions:

• Renewable energy sources (solar, wind, geothermal)
• Smart grids for efficient power distribution
• Electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions
• Energy-efficient appliances and systems

Understanding electricity and its applications continues to drive technological innovation and scientific research, shaping the future of our interconnected world.

Conclusion

Selecting the right electric supplier can greatly impact your monthly expenses and overall satisfaction with your electricity service. Each supplier listed above has its unique strengths and offerings that cater to different consumer needs. By considering factors such as pricing, contract flexibility, and renewable energy options, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your preferences and values as we move into 2025.