Illinois net metering: how ComEd credits your solar in 2026
Illinois net metering explained: credit rates, interconnection steps, and what ComEd and Ameren Illinois offer Illinois solar owners.
ComEd and Ameren Illinois both offer full retail-rate net metering for residential solar owners, consistent with Illinois net metering law. Understanding how each utility handles credits and billing is essential for Illinois homeowners evaluating solar in 2026.
ComEd net metering (Chicago and northern Illinois)
ComEd credits excess solar at the full retail rate — approximately $0.17 to $0.22/kWh in 2026. Credits roll forward monthly. Year-end surplus credits may be compensated at a lower avoided-cost rate per your interconnection agreement. ComEd interconnection for residential systems: 6 to 10 weeks.
Ameren Illinois net metering (downstate)
Ameren Illinois offers full retail-rate net metering for its customers south of the Chicago metro. Ameren’s rates run $0.12 to $0.16/kWh in many areas, somewhat lower than ComEd. Interconnection process similar to ComEd, 6 to 10 weeks.
Illinois Shines stacked on net metering
The most important financial point for Illinois homeowners: Illinois Shines REC income stacks on top of net metering. You earn net metering credits from ComEd or Ameren AND Illinois Shines SREC income for 15 years. This stacking is what makes Illinois one of the strongest Midwest solar markets despite its moderate sun resources.