ComEd Electric Supply Rate Increase: Frequently Asked Questions
In 2024, ComEd received electric supply rate results from the regional grid operator auction (PJM), which include an increase of 45% on regular household utility bills.
The spike was due to an increase in the cost for reserve power, also called “capacity.” The increase, which took effect on June 1, will cost customers, on average, about $10.60 more per month, depending on usage, through next Spring.
Why is my bill increasing so dramatically?
The increase is a result of many factors that have created the perfect storm. Power supply prices are going up because of global market pressures, and recent public policy has prioritized renewable energy (solar and wind)—which has resulted in many 24-hour fossil fuel plants closing in Illinois, creating a capacity shortage in the region that covers most Illinois customers.
ComEd is my electric company, but I receive my energy supply through a municipal aggregation contract/alternative retail electric supplier; what impact will I see?
Numerous ComEd customers receive their electricity from an Alternative Retail Electric Supplier (ARES) or through an aggregation contract set up by their municipality (Mayor). The new market rates this June will only impact those who receive their electric supply through ComEd.
Those who are supplied through an “ARES” or a municipal aggregation contract should check their bill for their supply rate and know the terms of their contract. Customers can find their rate and supplier information by locating the “Electric Supply” portion of their ComEd bill.
Customers can visit the Illinois Commerce Commission website at www.pluginIllinois.org to learn more about electric choice or contact the Mayor or Village President in their area for further information about the municipal aggregation plan, if applicable.
ComEd is not my electric company; will I see any impact?
Only customers who receive their electric supply through ComEd Supply Service will be subject to paying the new market prices. This does not affect City Owned Municipal Electric Service or Rural Electric Cooperative Service.
When can I expect to see my ComEd electric bill increase?
The increased supply rates will go into effect in June 2025, which will be payable by customers in late June/early July. Customer billing cycles vary.
I can’t afford my ComEd bill, what can I do?
There are several opportunities for individuals to seek out assistance with energy bills, both electric and gas, including the following:
- Many utility companies offer budget billing programs, which set monthly bill amounts at predictable amounts for which customers can financially plan. ComEd offers a program, and more information can be found on their website at the following: https://www.comed.com/my-account/my-dashboard/billing-options/budget-billing or call 1-800-334-7661.
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is a fed/state-funded program that provides qualifying low-income households with monetary relief for their winter energy bills. More information can be obtained by calling 1-877-411-WARM (9276) or visiting: https://dceo.illinois.gov/communityservices/homeweatherization/communityactionagencies.html. NOTE: This program is available in the Fall and runs out of funds quickly.
- ComEd is offering one-time bill relief for this Summer. See https://www.comed.com/my-account/customer-support/payment-assistance/customer-relief-fund or call 1-800-334-7661.
- ComEd payment assistance programs: https://www.comed.com/my-account/customer-support/payment-assistance or 1-800-334-7661.
- The Salvation Army: call 1-800-SAL-ARMY or 312-667-2010.
- Contact your area water utility or city government for water/sewer budget billing payment plans (average payments) and low-income plans.
What can I do to lower my energy bill?
There are a variety of simple things you can do in your home to lower the cost of your ComEd bill this summer, including the following:
- Turn off the air conditioning and open your windows on cooler evenings or in mild weather.
- Call ComEd 1-800-334-7661 for energy savings programs and rebates.
- Close your shades to block out the sun’s heat during the daytime.
- Set your thermostat up by 5 degrees when leaving home for more than 3 hours. Dialing up your thermostat can save up to 10% on your air conditioning bill.
- Whenever a light bulb burns out, replace it with a compact fluorescent light bulb.
- Set your refrigerator to keep your food at 38 degrees. Don’t let the food compartment get too cold; it will freeze your fruits and vegetables and waste energy.
- Keep your air conditioning duct vents clean and clear. Don’t block the cool air from getting to you.
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends detailed energy-saving tips for spring and summer to use your windows to keep out heat, operate your thermostat efficiently, use fans and ventilation strategies to cool your home, keep your cooling system running efficiently and much more. Detailed tips and tricks can be found on the Department’s website at: https://www.energy.gov/energysaver/spring-and-summer-energy-saving-tips
What is the biggest energy wasting habits that could be increasing my bill?
- Leaving the Lights On
- Using Incandescent Bulbs
- Leaving Electronics Plugged In
- Powering an Empty Chest Freezer
- Browsing Your Refrigerator
- Running the Dishwasher Half-Full
- Washing Clothes in Hot Water
- Setting the Water Heater Thermostat Too High
- Not Programming Your Thermostat
- Forgetting to Change Air Filters on the HVAC System
Is ComEd Electric or the State of Illinois going to profit from this huge rate increase?
No. ComEd is a delivery-only company and does not profit from energy supply. The cost of electric energy supply makes up about one-half to two-thirds of a customer’s energy bill and is passed directly, dollar-for-dollar, with no markup. The State of Illinois does not regulate supply rates-they are based on the wholesale markets and PJM auctions.
Illinois ICC does regulate delivery (formula) rates, which comprise one-third of customers’ bills. Please call the ICC for electric delivery rate issues or concerns at: 1-800-524-0795