FAQs

Enrollment Questions
Deregulation Questions
Rates/Plans/Contracts Questions
Billing/Payment Questions
Other Questions

Enrollment Questions




Q.  How do I sign up through EverBright Energy?

Signing up with Integrys Energy Services through EverBright Energy for your home or small business is easy and takes about 5 minutes.   Make sure you have your electric utility bill handy and head over to the enrollment section to begin the process today. Begin the process now.
 
Q.  What is the sign up process?

Sign up is simple.  Just follow the steps below:
  1. Grab Your Electric Utility Bill
    Find your account information for ComEd or Ameren

  2. Begin Enrollment

  3. Complete the enrollment form.

  4. Both Integrys Energy Services and EverBright Energy will send you an email confirming receipt of your enrollment request.  Integrys Energy Services will include the terms and conditions in their email, if you request it.

  5. You will receive  written notification from your current utility company,  either ComEd or Ameren confirming your choice  

  6. You will receive a confirmation email from Integrys and Everbright Energy that you have been accepted and what your expected start date is

  7. a.   The actual start date is likely to be between 30 to 45 days from date of enrollment.

  8. Your utility bill will reflect the switch to Integrys Energy Services within approximately 60 days.


Q.  Why do I need my utility account number for enrollment?
 
Residential:

In order to enroll, Integrys Energy must have your active utility account number so that Integrys Energy can inform the utility of your choice to switch.  The utility information is the key in communicating your electricity supply switch with your utility.
 
Commercial:

Along with your account number, Integrys Energy Services needs to identify your rate class so that they can accurately price your account.  Your price and utility charges may vary based upon your rate class and it is important that this information is gathered.

Q.  Can I enroll for someone else?

You can enroll someone that has entrusted you to do so. You must be able to verify that you have the authority to make this choice and enroll on behalf of someone else.

 Q.  Do you have an early cancellation fee?

 Residential:

Yes, for residential customers, Integrys Energy Services has a one-time fee of $50 if you terminate the agreement before the term has expired. Please see Terms and Conditions for full details.

Non-residential Accounts:

The early termination fees per Account shall be calculated as (a) the average monthly usage in kilowatt-hours (kWh) applicable each Account per the Utility, multiplied by (b) the number of billing cycles remaining in the Current Term, multiplied by (c) $0.005 per kWh. Please see Terms and Conditions for full details.


For non-residential
, if you signed up in July and decided to terminate the agreement in following January, this is an example of how your early termination fee will be calculated assuming your annual usage received from the utility at the time of enrollment is 60,000kWh:

A. Average monthly usage used for calculation purpose based on your annual usage:  5,000kWh 
B. Number of months remaining in the contract:  Feb-June (5 months)
C. Early Termination fee:  $.005 per kWh

Formula:  A X B X C = D  or for this example, 5000kWh X 5 X $.005 = $125.00


Q.  Do I need to contact my current supplier or my utility if I want to switch?

No, you will not need to contact your supplier or utility to switch. Integrys will work with your current utility for a seamless transition, meaning that your utility will continue to deliver the power to your home or small business. You will remain a customer of your current utility as long as they continue to deliver energy to your home.

Q.  Will I still be able to switch suppliers if I have an outstanding balance with my utility?

For Ameren utility customers:

You will not be eligible to switch suppliers if you have an outstanding balance

For ComEd utility customers:


You are still eligible to switch to a new supplier with the outstanding balance.  However, your outstanding balance will still be owed to the utility.  Ultimately, as long as the balance remains outstanding, you are in danger of being disconnected, no matter if you are with a supplier or not. It is recommended that you clear up any past due charges prior to switching your energy provider.
 
Q. When will my new supply rate take effect?

We expect new customers to see the change of supplier on their utility bill between 30 to 60 days after enrollment. To better understand the timing, please see our switching check list.

Q.  I’ve already enrolled and I have questions that aren't addressed here.

If you are already a customer, please call Integrys Energy Services at 888-688-1236. This toll-free number is available 24/7.  If you have a billing question such as meter reads or balance due, please call your utility at:

Ameren Customer Services: 800-755-5000

ComEd Customer Services: 800-334-7661


Q.  Will my electricity be interrupted when I switch suppliers?

No, the switch is absolutely seamless and will not interrupt your service.   All you’ll notice is a change to your utility bill:  Integrys Energy Services name as your supplier, and your new electric rate.

Q.  Does EverBright Energy or Integrys Energy Services require a deposit?

No. However, if you are behind in your payments, the utility may still require a deposit from you as they would from any customer.
 
Q.  What type of payment methods do you offer?

Your billing will continue to come from your current utility.  So, you can enjoy the same billing methods you used before the switch.

For a complete list of your utility’s payment options, click one of the links below.

Ameren

ComEd


Q.   Does EverBright Energy check my credit?

No. No one will check your credit or ask any questions concerning your credit history.

Q.  Does everyone qualify to sign up through EverBright Energy?

Anyone that has a utility account within ComEd can sign up through EverBright Energy.  There may be some instances where the utility may reject the enrollment to this program.
 
Q.  I currently get my electricity from my municipality. Can I switch through EverBright Energy?

No, unfortunately, a choice in suppliers is only available to customers served by public utility distribution systems.

Q.  If I switch through EverBright Energy, can I switch back to my local utility or to a different supplier?
 
Yes, you can return to your utility or switch to another supplier at any time.  However, if you terminate the agreement during the term, termination penalties may apply.  Also, note that if you switch back to the utility, you may be required to stay with the utility for the next 12 months before you can switch again.

Q. Do I have to enroll online?

No, you may also enroll via the telephone by calling 877-333-EVER (3837). However, we recommend that you enroll online.

Q:   What if I don’t like Integrys’ services after signing?

Integrys Energy Services strives to ensure that all customers’ experiences will be exceptional and of the highest quality.  However, if you have a complaint you are encouraged to contact Integrys Energy Services at 888-688-1236 or the Illinois Commerce Commission or the utility to file a complaint.

Online:

www.icc.illinois.gov/consumer/complaint

By Phone:

1-800-524-0795

1-217-782-2024 outside the State of Illinois

TTY at 1-800-858-9277

8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday

By Mail:

Illinois Commerce Commission
527 East Capitol Ave
Springfield, IL. 62701

Q:  How can I learn more about EverBright Energy?

For more information about EverBright Energy, please check out our About Us page.

Q:  Who is Integrys Energy Services and how does it relate to EverBright Energy?

Integrys Energy Services is certified by the Illinois Commerce Commission to be an ARES (Alternative Retail Electricity Supplier) to supply power to residential and small commercial customers. EverBright Energy offers Integrys Energy Services’ residential electric supply products. Once your enrollment is accepted by the utility, Integrys will supply the power for your home and office.
 
Q:  Is EverBright Energy certified by the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC)?

No, we are an exclusive contractor for Integrys Energy Services who is a certified ARES by the ICC.  By signing up through EverBright Energy, you will be agreeing to receive power supply from Integrys Energy Services.

DEREGULATION QUESTIONS



Q:  What is deregulation?

This choice in where you buy your electric supply is what has been deregulated. Your electric bill is comprised of two components. The first is the distribution or “wires” charges. These are the cost for the infrastructure the utility has built to bring power to your home and this includes items such as the poles, wires, transformers, and transfer stations. These costs are fixed by the utility and not subject to market changes. It is here that the utility by law is able to profit.  The second component is the actual power that flows thru the lines. This is subject to market forces and the utility passes these costs thru to you without markup. It is this second component, the power that you have a choice about. Rather than buy the power from the utility at whatever rate they are currently purchasing it at, you can elect to do so thru another party. Regardless of your choice of supplier, your current electricity utility remains responsible for delivering the electricity supply, reading the meter, and providing safe and reliable delivery service.

Q:  How can enrolling through EverBright Energy save me money on my electricity bill?

By law, utilities cannot make a profit from electricity supply (i.e. selling power to you).  Their profit derives only from the delivery of electricity to your home or office.  This is where we step in.  EverBright Energy and our selected supplier, Integrys Energy Services, work to ensure that our clients have a competitive electricity supply rate.
 
Q:  What is the benefit of energy deregulation?

In one word: Choice.  You have a choice to choose who you want to do business with. These are benefits that all companies, large and small in Illinois have enjoyed for many years.  Now, it’s your turn to rethink your power.

Q:  Where can I find more information about electricity choice?
You can read more about electricity choice on the ICC (Illinois Commerce Commission) Website or on your utility's website. 

Ameren

ComEd  

Q: Why is my utility offering this program?

Thanks to deregulation, your utility will coordinate with suppliers to offer you choice and competitive pricing. Utilities also believe that this competition will encourage improvements in services and pricing choices, as well as lead to new products and services.
 
Q:  If I choose another supplier, will I still be a utility customer?

Yes, by choosing a supplier, you're not "leaving" your utility.  If you choose a different supplier, you’ll still receive a bill from your current electric utility; the only difference will be the new price for electric supply on your utility bill. No matter who you choose to supply your electricity, you will continue to call your electric utility for outages, emergency services and questions about your service

RATES/PLANS/CONTRACTS QUESTIONS



Q:  Why do the electricity supply rates offered change from time to time?

Electricity is a commodity.  Just like the price of gasoline for your car, the price of electricity changes due to supply, demand, and other factors.  Our rate may change from time to time to reflect the market, but once you lock into your rate, it will be set for the entire term of the agreement. Click to see our current rates

 Q: Are there many suppliers who offer the same type of product?

The market is rapidly changing.  With recent deregulation of the residential market in Illinois, many suppliers are just entering into the market.  EverBright Energy selected to offer Integrys Energy Services fixed rate products because Integrys has been in Illinois serving customers over 10 years.  We are local and we understand this market.
 
Q:  Do you offer supply service for both Ameren and ComEd customers?

Yes, we have offers for ComEd and Ameren customers.  If you would like to compare electricity supply costs, calculate your rate now.

Q:  I’m currently on a Heat Rate with the electric utility for using electricity to heat my house. Can I sign up on this plan?
Because you are using electricity during the winter when the prices are usually less expensive, most utilities provide a significant discount to customers that have Heat Rate.   So, your rate may be less than what most energy suppliers can offer to an average customer.  Check your rate and compare – if you still wish to sign up with us, enroll now.
  
Q:  I’m on real time pricing program offered by the utility. Can I sign up on this plan?

Yes,  unlike the real time programs offered by the utility where you may pay a different price depending on when and how much you use your power, our plan offers a fixed rate for all your usage.
 
Q:  Do I have to agree to contract terms in order to sign up?

Yes, you can review those terms online or request that they be sent to you.  You can also enroll online or by calling 877-333-EVER (3837).
 
Q:  How long is the agreement?

The agreement can be for 12 months, 24 months, or 36 months. This depends upon the offers available and which offer you choose.  Then, for your convenience, the agreement will renew automatically.  Prior to any renewal, Integrys Energy Services will send you notification along with the new price. EverBright may send you notification as well. If you wish to cancel you must do so at this time.

Q:  What happens at the end of the term of the agreement?

At least 30 days prior to the end of the initial term of the agreement, Integrys Energy Services may send you a notice of renewal and the notice of renewal may include different options for renewal.  This could include your renewal rate, renewal term and instructions on how to renew or cancel the agreement. EverBright Energy may also send you an email notice of your renewal date.

Q:  What if I relocate out of state?
 
Integrys Energy Services will waive the early termination fee if you move outside the utilities’ service areas.  But, in order to do so, it is very important that you contact Integrys prior to disconnecting the account with your utility.
 
Q:  Who do I call if I have questions about my agreement?

Prior to enrollment, you can call EverBright Energy at 877-333-EVER (3837). Exisitng customers should contact Integrys Energy Services at 888-688-1236.
 
Q:  Will I save money by switching?

Try our residential cost comparison calculator.  Our estimated cost comparison calculator compares the Integrys Energy Services 12-Month Fixed Rate and the ComEd Price to Compare as shown on the ICC's Plug In Illinois website. This calculation is an estimate only.  The results are based upon an average residential usage profile only and may not be reflective of your specific usage pattern or rate. This calculation does not guarantee savings against any future utility rates.  ComEd’s rates may change every June and October.
 
An average residential, that doesn’t have electric heat, should see savings compared to their current ComEd utility rate.  We cannot guarantee the savings against any future utility rate adjustment or against any special rates you may receive from the utility.
 
Q:  Are there any fees to switch through EverBright?

No, there are no fees for signing up with Integrys Energy Services through EverBright Energy. The rates shown are for energy supply only and do not include any applicable taxes, utility distribution fees or other charges.  If you are currently with another supplier, your current supplier may charge you an early termination fee for switching. Please check your agreement for details.

Q:  Will I be charged any extra energy supply charges if I use more or less energy?
 
No. There will be no additional charges or penalties due to changes in your usage.  You will be charged the per kWh rate that was agreed upon in the agreement. Your monthly energy supply cost is determined by multiplying the per kWh rate by the total monthly usage.

Q:  When will I know that I have switched?

Once the utility processes your enrollment, your agreement will begin after the next meter read date. EverBright Energy will notify you of such date in an email. You will then see Integrys Energy Services along with your new rate on your next utility bill. 

Please note that your switch to Integrys Energy Services as your electric power supplier may take up to two billing cycles to take effect.


Q: If I change my mind after I sign up, are there any rescission rights?

Buyer may cancel its enrollment without penalty 1) For ComEd nonresidential customers, within 5 days of the effective date of the switch to Seller’s service, or 2) for ComEd and Ameren residential customers, within 3 business days after enrolling electronically via this website.  If you have any questions regarding rescission please contact Integrys Energy Services toll-free at 888-688-1236.

Q:  Is my personal information safe?

Yes, your personal information is safe and it will not be shared with any party outside of EverBright Energy and Integrys Energy Services.


BILLING/PAYMENT QUESTIONS



Q: When will I receive my first bill with the new rate?

Once you switch through EverBright Energy, it may take up to 60 days (about 2 billing cycles), to receive your first bill from the utility.  You will then see Integrys Energy Services along with your new rate on your next bill. To avoid delays, please make sure you accurately input all of your customer data.

Q: Where do I find my utility account number?

Your utility account number can be found on your Ameren or ComEd bill. If you do not have a recent bill from the utility, you can contact your utility and ask for this information.

Ameren Customer Services: 800-755-5000     

ComEd Customer Services: 800-334-7661

Q: Who do I call if I have questions about my bill?

With any questions regarding the usage, amount due, past due or meter read, please contact your utility at the telephone numbers below.  If you have a question about your rate, you can contact Integrys Energy Services customer service at 888-688-1236.

Ameren Customer Services: 800-755-5000

ComEd Customer Services: 800-334-7661

Q: Will EverBright Energy or Integrys Energy Services send me a bill too?

No, you will continue to receive only one bill from the utility. Your Ameren or ComEd bill will show Integrys Energy Services as your supplier.

Q: Does Integrys charge a fee if I stop payment?

It depends, if you stop payment and the utility disconnects your account during your agreement term with Integrys Energy Services, you may be charged an early termination fee.  If the utility does not disconnect your account due to non-payment, Integrys will not charge anything other than the energy supply. If you have a situation where your payment may be delayed, you should contact the utility to work out a payment plan.
  
Q: What payment options will be available to me?

You will continue to have all the payment options that your current utility offers.  For a full list of payment options and their description, please see the utilities websites below.  If you wish to change your current payment method you can do so through the utility.


ComEd

Q. Who do I make the payment to?

You will continue to pay the utility directly.  Your utility will then make the payment to your supplier so that you will not have to receive two separate bills.

Q: Where can I see my current account balance or my current bill?

Your utility website will continue to offer services where you can view your bill and check your payments.  You can still access this information even after you switch suppliers.

  
Login ComEd

Q: What is a utility delivery charge?

Delivery service charges include the costs of delivering the energy to your home or business.  This is a service performed by the utility and paid to the utility. These costs may include a customer charge (to cover utility service connection and billing costs), a standard metering charge and a distribution facilities charge. You will receive these charges regardless of whether you switch suppliers or not.

Q: Is there a fee for switching suppliers?

No, neither Integrys Energy Services nor the utility will charge any fees to switch.

Q: Can I change the name on my account or add someone to my account?

Utility accounts typically have one primary account holder. If you wish to change any of the information on your account, you should contact the utility. If you are a current customer of Integrys Energy Services (you enrolled through EverBright Energy) and this action will be creating a new account for your home or business, you need to contact Integrys to inform them of the new account number once it has been changed.

Integrys Energy Services Customer Service: 888-688-1236


ComEd Customer Service

Q: When is my bill due? Can I change my payment terms?

The payment terms are set by the utility. You need to contact the utility customer service to learn more.


ComEd Customer Service


Q. Will you charge late fees?

Late fees are set by the utility. You need to contact the utility customer service to learn more.


ComEd Customer Service

Q: I am currently on a budget billing plan with my utility. Can I still switch suppliers?

Yes, you will continue to have all the payment options that your utility offers, including budget billing.  For a full list of payment options and their description, please see the links below or visit payment options.If you wish to change your current payment method you can do so through the utility.


ComEd
 
Q: Do you offer budget billing?

You will also continue to have all the payment options that your utility offers to all of its customers including budget bill.  For a full list of payment options and their description, please see the links below or visit payment options. If you wish to change your current payment method you can do so through the utility.


ComEd
 

OTHER QUESTIONS



Q:  Where is EverBright Energy located?

EverBright Energy is located right here in Illinois.
 
Q:  What is the history of EverBright Energy?


EverBright Energy was created by Nania Energy to help Illinois residents and small businesses enjoy the same electricity supply savings that larger businesses have been offered for more than a decade. Finding a supplier that emphasizes integrity and customer service in the deregulated market is important to EverBright Energy, which is why we choose Integrys as our supplier.
 
Q:  Who is Integrys Energy Services?

EverBright Energy is an exclusive agent of Integrys Energy Services.  We offer Integrys supply products because they share our passion for helping residents and small businesses reduce their energy supply costs.

Q:  What do I do if my power goes out?

Any of the physical delivery of power and any associated facility maintenance, will still be performed by your local utility.  They have to ensure the safe and reliable delivery of the power to your home or services.  Any issues you have regarding this matter, including any power outages, should be directed to your utility.  

Information on outages can be found online at:


(800) 755-5000

ComEd

(800) EDISON-1 (1-800-334-7661)

Q:  What do I do in the event of an emergency?

If you or any household member is experiencing a medical emergency, please call 911 immediately.  If you see a downed power line, STAY AWAY and tell others to do the same.  Call 911 or the below numbers to immediately report it. 

Ameren: (800) 755-5000

ComEd : (800) EDISON-1 (1-800-334-7661)

Q:  Can the utility prevent my account from enrolling with another supplier?

The utility cannot prevent your account from enrolling with a supplier.  However, your account could be rejected for a few specific reasons.  If your account is rejected from the utility, Integrys Energy Services will notify you and let you know of the reason. You can take actions to correct the status and re-enroll.
 
Q:  Why wouldn’t my enrollment be accepted?


Some of the most common reasons why the account could be rejected are:

-   Account has a past due balance with the utility

-   Account exists but is not active

-   Account number was entered incorrectly

-   Rate you selected is no longer available

In such cases, you can contact the utility to make arrangement to correct the situation so that you can enroll again.
 
Ameren: (800) 755-5000
  
ComEd: (800) EDISON-1 (1-800-334-7661)

If your account has been rejected due to “CMB Account Not Eligible - Minimum Stay” you will be provided with a date for when you will be eligible again. You must wait until this date to re-enroll your account.
 
Once the situation is corrected, you will able to re-enroll your account online.

Q:  Once the situation is corrected, what should I do to re-enroll?

You can simply go to our enrollment page to reenroll your account online.  The process will start anew.
 
Q: What is renewable energy?

Renewable energy is energy generated from natural resources such as sunlight, wind, water and geothermal, which can be replenished naturally.  Also, energy generated from waste materials such biomass, solid waste and landfill gas is considered renewable.
  
Q: Why do we not use more renewable energy?

In the past, renewable energy has generally been more expensive to produce and use than fossil fuels. Renewable resources are often located in remote areas, and it is expensive to build power lines to the places where the electricity is needed.  The use of renewable sources is also limited because they are not always available — cloudy days reduce solar power, calm days reduce wind power and droughts reduce the water available for hydropower. All of these aspects can increase the prices of renewable.  In recent years, production and usage of renewable energy has grown more quickly due to rising oil and natural gas prices.  The use of renewable energy is expected to continue, although we will still rely on non-renewable fuels to meet most of our energy needs. Check out our energy savings tips.

Q:  If I enroll here, will my power have any renewable energy?
Yes, in Illinois, most utilities and energy suppliers are required to have some renewable energy in their portfolio of energy sources.  Under the current rule, the amount of energy required to come from renewable resources will continue to increase, year over year, until it reaches 25% by 2025.

Q: Can I buy 100% renewable energy through EverBright Energy?
We currently do not offer a product that is 100% from a renewable source.  Although renewable energy is desirable, the premium price for the 100% renewable energy is still uneconomical for most households.  There are other ways you can contribute to the environment by finding ways to reduce your consumption, check out our Energy Saving Tips.
 
Q: As a small business, how does this benefit me?

The rules of deregulation have always allowed you choice even prior to recent changes in the law allowing homeowners and residents an option. Depending on how small your bill was, buying from a supplier may not have been practical or provided savings. EverBright Energy offers you a unique option that should be more economical than it would have been in the past. Since the utility will bill you directly, suppliers have lower costs to serve you which in turn makes switching suppliers a smart choice for many. When you enroll through EverBright Energy with Integrys some of these savings are passed on to you.

Q: My small business has a Watt-Hour Rate Classification. What does this mean? Can I still enroll through EverBright Energy?

Commercial- Watt-Hour classification means you are the smallest of the utilities' business users. Often, you have very little or no monthly usage and as such you may not have a Demand Component. If you enroll through EverBright, you may be given a price that is different than if you were a Commercial-Demand classification. Please check your utility invoice to determine your classification. We may be offering a separate Watt-Hour price. If you enroll and inadvertently choose a price for the Watt-Hour product and you are a Commercial Demand classification or vice versa, you may advised to reenroll that account correctly.