Why Illinois Electricity Prices Are Increasing In 2026 — and What Illinois Is Doing About It
- Solar Powers Illinois
- Jun 12
- 5 min read
Key Takeaways:
Illinois electricity bills increased on June 1, 2026, continuing the trend set in recent years.
Energy costs are an issue nationwide, but Illinois is leading by being one of the first states to pass a bill to address the energy affordability crisis.
The historic Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA) is a first-of-its-kind solution designed to stop the annual cycle of electricity cost spikes.
If you live or work in Illinois, you may notice higher ComEd or Ameren bills in summer 2026.
Average ComEd residential electric bills will increase by 12% over current rates, a ComEd spokesperson told the Daily Herald. Meanwhile, WAND-TV reports Ameren customers should expect an approximately 29% price increase.
These new rates took effect June 1, 2026, continuing the trend established in recent years. This price spike is part of a nationwide affordability crisis and not unique to Illinois.
Read on to learn more about why this is happening and how Illinois is responding.
What’s Causing Electricity Prices to Increase in Illinois?
In simple terms, the basic principle of supply and demand applies to your energy bill just like it does for everyday goods like food or gas.
Electricity prices go up when demand outpaces supply. That’s exactly what’s happening – in Illinois and across the U.S. – as demand sharply increases due to factors such as data centers and the increased electrification of everyday life, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration.
These increases will show up on your power bill on the “capacity charge” or “supply charge” line. This portion of your bill refers to the cost your utility pays to buy energy from power plants.
The three biggest drivers behind Illinois’ June 1 energy price increases
1. Illinois electricity price increases are because the state needs more energy than the grid can easily supply
Illinois is using more power than ever before. Data centers, rising household electricity usage, advanced manufacturing, and population growth are all increasing demand.
Ameren told the Peoria Journal-Star there is an energy shortage in its area during peak usage, and ComEd has warned of increasing energy costs as future demand is expected to outpace supply within a few years.
2. Power grids are charging more money for the energy they are providing Illinois utilities (ComEd and Ameren) don’t set capacity prices themselves. They buy electricity from power grids to deliver to their customers. Prices are set at “capacity auctions” that happen about a year before the new rates go into effect.
Capacity auction costs are passed directly onto your utility bill. The price increases you’re seeing now are from last year’s capacity auctions.
3. This is happening nationwide
The issue is not unique to Illinois. Electricity prices across the country have been rising faster than inflation since 2022 and are expected to keep increasing through 2026, according to the Energy Information Administration.
Why June 1 Matters
Energy prices are set about a year in advance and go into effect on June 1. Not only are the rates going up, but the date falls near the beginning of summer, when many people naturally use more energy as they turn on their air conditioning to stay cool.
Electricity Prices Are a Nationwide Problem, But Illinois Is the First State to Act
While rising electricity prices are a national trend, Illinois became the first state in the country to pass a comprehensive solution. The landmark Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act (CRGA), which Gov. Pritzker signed earlier this year, follows Illinois’ tradition of nation-leading energy and climate legislation.
How the Clean and Reliable Grid Affordability Act helps bring prices down over time
CRGA will:
Build energy storage so Illinois can store low-cost electricity (such as excess power from solar panels on a sunny day) and use it when prices are highest (such as during a heatwave)
Improve long-term power grid planning to avoid future shortages
Expand energy efficiency programs that lower electricity usage and costs
Launch a “Virtual Power Plant” program that pools power from already-built sources, like home solar panels and electric vehicles, to help stabilize prices
Multiple third-party studies and analyses found CRGA will save $13 billion over time – up to $20 per month for residential customers – by building new power and better utilizing the power we have already connected to the grid, according to an analysis by the Illinois Power Agency.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my electricity bill increasing in Illinois?
In simple terms, it is a supply and demand issue. Illinois, like the rest of the United States, is experiencing record-high levels of energy demand, causing prices to rise.
Is my utility company profiting from these power bill increases?
No. Illinois utilities are required by law to pass electricity supply costs directly to customers without markup. The higher costs are a result of power being more expensive for your utility to buy.
Will prices keep rising every year?
CRGA is designed to stop the cycle of annual price increases. As the bill’s investments are realized and more energy is built, prices will fall over time. Gov. Pritzker described CRGA as “a historic measure to lower utility bills for working families while securing Illinois’ long-term energy future.”
Will CRGA lower my bill right away?
CRGA won’t erase the June 1 increase, as prices are set a year in advance, but it will help prevent this cycle from repeating in future years. Multiple third-party studies and analyses found CRGA will save $13 billion over time – up to $20 per month for residential customers.
How can I save money on my electric bills in 2026?
The State of Illinois has provided a list of resources to help residents save money on utility bills. ComEd and Ameren also offer savings programs.
Further, there are various state-level programs available to provide significant discounts on solar energy installations on your home. Solar creates long-term savings, as panels pay for themselves within years – and certain programs can even help eligible households install solar for $0 upfront. View our 2026 Illinois Solar & Storage Affordability Guide for more information.
If you are unable to install solar, you can also consider subscribing to Community Solar, which allows you to access a portion of the energy created by a nearby solar installation. Depending on your unique energy usage and situation, Community Solar could help you save up to 20% on your utility bill, according to EnergySage.
In simple terms, why is energy storage so important?
CRGA’s most significant solution to lower prices is by building energy storage across Illinois. Storage works like a piggybank for electricity. Power is deposited when there is surplus power (such as on a very sunny day) and withdrawn later when it’s most needed (such as when prices are highest).
This article was originally published on June 12, 2026. It was fact-checked by Solar Powers Illinois Experts Lesley McCain, Executive Director of the Illinois Solar Energy & Storage Association; and Stephanie Burgos-Veras, Senior Policy Manager for the Coalition for Community Solar Access.
