The complete playbook to lower your electric bill
Electric bills in Illinois have many levers. This guide covers every one — including programs that have nothing to do with solar — because the goal is your smallest possible bill, by whatever legitimate means work for you.
1. LIHEAP: direct bill assistance (biggest impact for eligible households)
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program pays money directly toward your ComEd or Ameren bill if your household qualifies. Apply through your local community action agency. If you're on SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI, you're likely in the income range. This is the single fastest way to shrink what you pay right now.
2. Budget billing: smooth the spikes
Both ComEd and Ameren offer budget billing — they average your yearly usage into equal monthly payments. It doesn't lower your total cost, but it kills the shock of $300+ summer months. Free to enroll in your utility account.
3. Time-of-use (hourly) rates: shift when you use power
Some utilities offer rates that are cheaper during off-peak hours (nights, weekends). If you can run the dishwasher or laundry when power is cheaper, this adds up. Check your utility's website for availability in your area.
4. Efficiency programs and rebates
ComEd and Ameren both run rebate programs for efficient appliances, LED bulbs, thermostats, and home weatherization. These cut your usage itself — permanently lower bills, not one-time discounts.
5. Payment plans if you're behind
If your bill is overdue, both utilities offer payment arrangements and hardship programs. Calling before disconnection is always the move — they work with you.
6. Community solar credits: the modern addition
This is the one we help with. Illinois' community solar program applies credits to your bill from a local solar farm. You keep 10% of the credit value — up to 20% if you receive assistance. It stacks with all the above.
Ready to add community solar to your toolkit? It stacks with everything above and takes about 5 minutes to enroll.
Check my savingsSecure enrollment via Ampion & VoltEra EnergyThe real move: stack them
None of these cancel each other out. A household on LIHEAP, using budget billing, with efficiency upgrades, and community solar credits at the 20% rate — that's a fully optimized energy bill. Each lever pulls independently.
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