Last year, PJM, the transmission system operator for northern Illinois, conducted its annual capacity auction. This event is designed to secure future electricity supply based on projected demand. The cost associated with this auction appears monthly on each customer’s electricity bill as part of the Supply charge and is passed through without markup or profit by ComEd.
The auction-based capacity prices applicable in Illinois are set to rise significantly starting June 1, 2025. This increase is attributed to factors such as power plant retirements, increased electricity demand, changes to market rules, and more frequent extreme weather events. Consequently, customers will notice higher costs reflected in their monthly electricity bills within the Supply charge.
In response to the expected increase in bills, ComEd offers programs and resources aimed at helping both residential and commercial customers manage their energy usage and monthly expenses. Customers can access various billing options and assistance programs through ComEd's Smart Assistance Manager available at www.ComEd.com/SAM.
ComEd also provides resources for understanding electric bills and offers award-winning efficiency programs designed to help save money and energy. These initiatives are intended to assist customers who need it most and support small businesses in managing future energy bills.