Full retail choice. ComEd Energy Efficiency Program is one of the most robust in the Midwest. Illinois Shines (SREC program) supports commercial solar. Chicago building benchmarking ordinance covers 50,000+ sq ft.
Illinois businesses: Section 179D deduction expires June 30, 2026 — up to $5.94/sqft in tax deductions on the table.
Based on Illinois market characteristics: rate structure, climate, regulatory environment, and utility program availability.
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Answer 4 questions about your building and see all federal and Illinois state programs that apply — Section 179D eligibility, IRA ITC, utility rebates, and C-PACE financing options.
Find Illinois Incentives →| Project Type | Cost Range | Unit | Source |
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The average commercial electricity rate in Illinois is approximately 9.6¢ per kWh as of 2025–2026, which is 32% below national avg. Actual rates vary by utility, rate class, demand charges, and consumption level. Illinois is a deregulated market — commercial customers can shop competitive retail electric providers (REPs) which may offer lower rates than standard tariffs.
Illinois businesses can access a combination of federal and state programs: (1) Federal ITC 48E — 30% tax credit for commercial solar and battery storage, applicable to all Illinois businesses; (2) 179D commercial buildings deduction — up to $5.94/sqft for qualifying energy efficiency improvements; (3) C-PACE financing — available in Illinois, allowing businesses to finance energy projects through property assessments with no upfront cost; (4) Utility rebate programs from ComEd (Exelon) and other providers. Visit our State Incentives Guide for the full Illinois program list.
Based on Illinois's electricity rate (9.6¢/kWh), climate characteristics, and available incentives, the highest-ROI commercial energy projects are: Retro-Commissioning, Building Automation, LED Lighting. While base rates are below the national average, utility rebates and federal tax credits (ITC, 179D, MACRS) still drive compelling project economics.
Yes — Illinois has moderate solar potential and commercial solar economics are strong in 2026. The federal ITC 48E provides a 30% tax credit, MACRS allows accelerated 5-year depreciation (plus 40% bonus depreciation), and the 179D deduction may stack if the system is part of a broader energy efficiency package. C-PACE financing is available in Illinois, enabling 100% financing with cash-flow-positive projects from Day 1. Typical commercial solar payback in Illinois ranges from 4–9 years depending on project size, financing, and utility rate class.
Yes — Illinois has full retail electricity choice for commercial customers. This means businesses can shop competitive retail electric providers (REPs) for their electricity supply, potentially accessing lower rates, fixed-price contracts, or renewable energy products not available from the incumbent utility. Distribution (poles and wires) remains with the local utility. EnergyStackHub can connect you with providers in Illinois — see our provider directory.
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