Illinois Electricity Procurement
Nuclear-powered with distinct Chicago and downstate markets
Also available: Natural Gas Procurement in Illinois
The Illinois Electricity Market
Illinois runs on nuclear power more than almost any other state, providing baseload stability but also significant policy exposure. The state spans two ISOs—MISO for southern Illinois and PJM for the ComEd territory around Chicago—creating distinct market dynamics.
Grid Operator: PJM / MISO
PJM Interconnection / Midcontinent Independent System Operator
Retail choice since: 2002
Key Market Concepts
Understanding these terms is essential for navigating Illinois's electricity market:
Illinois created ZECs to support nuclear plants, recovered through ratepayer charges. The CEJA law expanded this support through 2040.
Landmark 2021 legislation mandating 100% clean energy by 2050, with significant ratepayer funding for nuclear support, renewables, and coal plant closures.
ComEd offers an hourly pricing program for residential and small commercial customers, exposing them to real-time market prices—a rarity.
ComEd territory is in PJM's ComEd capacity zone, which can clear at different prices than adjacent zones depending on local supply/demand.
What Makes Illinois Unique
Nuclear Baseload
Exelon's nuclear fleet provides over half of Illinois generation, creating price stability but policy cost exposure.
MISO/PJM Split
Ameren territory is in MISO with different capacity rules than ComEd's PJM territory. Procurement strategies differ.
Clean Energy Mandates
CEJA's aggressive timeline will drive significant changes in supply mix and costs over the coming decade.
Wind Integration
Illinois is a major wind producer, creating periods of low or negative prices in MISO that sophisticated buyers can capture.
Key Considerations for Illinois Buyers
- CEJA compliance costs will layer onto rates over time
- ComEd hourly pricing provides market exposure option for smaller users
- Location determines ISO—and optimal procurement strategy
- Strong Community Choice Aggregation activity in Chicago suburbs
- Industrial users can benefit from real-time pricing to capture low-cost periods
Major Utilities in Illinois
Seasonal Factors
Summer peaks in ComEd; MISO has distinct summer and winter capacity considerations.
Why Choose Eisenbach for IL?
- Licensed and in good standing
- Decades of market experience
- Relationships with local suppliers
- Custom RFP processing within 1 day
Ready to Optimize Your IL Energy Costs?
Our team understands Illinois's market dynamics. Let's discuss your specific situation.
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