Utilities solutions.

[JohnnyCougar]

I just moved out of student housing and now have my own place. But I have no idea what company to call to get gas and electric here. I need some advice on the best company for the Chicago area. Which ones are the cheapest? The most politically progressive?

TIA for advice!

[mopinko]

1. honey, there is only one of each

commonwealth edison and peoples gas.

[JohnnyCougar]

2. Ok, thanks

I read some stuff on the internet that made it sound like there was a big choice and everything was deregulated.

Maybe that is only for commercial customers or something.

[kevsand]

4. It's supposed to be for everybody. See post #3 /nt

[kevsand]

3. That's not entirely true.

Under Illinois law, consumers can select an alternate retail electric supplier (ARES). Potential suppliers of this electricity have to go through an application and certification process through the Illinois Commerce Commission.

Unfortunately, it appears that only one company has completed this process so far, so your choice is limited to your local utility and one alternate, depending on where you live.

More info here: http://www.icc.illinois.gov/pluginillinois/