Managing Energy Costs as a Renter in Illinois: Alternatives to On-Site Solar

Renting doesn't mean you're powerless over your energy costs. While you can't install solar panels on a roof you don't own, Illinois offers numerous alternatives—from community solar subscriptions to supplier shopping to smart efficiency measures. This guide shows renters how to take control of their energy bills.

Published: December 26, 2025 · 13 min read

Why Your Rent is Just the Start: The Hidden Costs of Energy for Illinois Renters

Energy costs catch many Illinois renters off guard, especially those new to the state or moving from milder climates.

Understanding Your Energy Responsibility

Rental arrangements vary in how energy costs are handled:

Utilities included in rent: Some apartments include all or some utilities in rent. This simplifies budgeting but removes incentive to conserve—and landlords may keep thermostats locked or units less efficient.

Tenant-paid utilities: Most rentals require tenants to establish utility accounts. You pay directly for what you use, giving you control but also responsibility.

Master-metered buildings: Some buildings have one meter for multiple units, with costs allocated by formula (often by square footage or unit count). Individual conservation doesn't always reduce your share.

Typical Renter Energy Costs in Illinois

Apartment (800-1,000 sq ft):

Electric: $50-$100/month average (higher with electric heat)
Gas (if separate): $30-$80/month average
Summer peak: May double with AC
Winter peak: May double with heating (especially electric)

Rental house (1,500-2,000 sq ft):

Electric: $80-$150/month average
Gas: $50-$150/month average
More variation due to building efficiency

Renter-Specific Challenges

Limited control: You can't upgrade insulation, replace windows, install efficient HVAC, or add solar panels without landlord permission (which is rarely granted).

Old, inefficient buildings: Many rental properties have outdated systems—single-pane windows, inadequate insulation, old appliances—that drive higher bills.

Poorly aligned incentives: Landlords pay for efficiency upgrades but tenants pay utility bills. This "split incentive" means landlords often underinvest in efficiency.

Shorter time horizons: Investment in efficiency doesn't make sense if you might move in a year or two.

The #1 Solar Hack for Illinois Renters: How Community Solar Slashes Your Bill

Community solar is specifically designed for people who can't install their own panels—including renters.

How Community Solar Works for Renters

A solar farm is built somewhere in your utility territory
You subscribe to a share of the solar farm's production
Your share generates electricity credits on your utility bill
You pay the community solar provider at a discount to the credit value
Net result: 10-20% savings on electricity supply costs

Why It's Perfect for Renters

No installation: Nothing goes on your building
No landlord permission: It's your utility account, your choice
No upfront cost: Most programs require no money down
Portable: Move within the same utility territory and your subscription follows
Guaranteed savings: Programs typically guarantee the discount

Finding Community Solar Programs

Illinois Solar for All: If you're income-qualified, Illinois Solar for All offers enhanced benefits—50%+ savings with no credit check.

Market-rate programs: Multiple providers offer community solar subscriptions in ComEd and Ameren territories. Compare offers for the best discount.

What to Watch For

Contract length: Many require long-term commitments (15-20 years). Understand exit provisions if you move out of the utility territory.
Credit requirements: Market-rate programs may check credit. Illinois Solar for All does not.
Subscription sizing: Match subscription to your typical usage to maximize benefit.

Go Green, Save Green: Exploring Illinois' Alternative Energy Suppliers & REC Programs

Beyond community solar, Illinois' deregulated market gives renters options to choose their electricity supplier and potentially go green.

Shopping for Electricity Suppliers

Even as a renter, you can choose your electricity supplier:

Compare rates at Illinois electricity comparison tools
Look for rates lower than your utility's default
Consider green products backed by RECs
Switch online or by phone—no landlord involved

Potential savings: 5-15% on supply portion of bill by finding competitive rates.

Green Energy Products

Many suppliers offer 100% renewable products:

Powered by Renewable Energy Credits (RECs)
Small premium over standard rates (often $5-15/month)
Support renewable energy development
Legitimate for sustainability claims if properly verified

Natural Gas Choice

Illinois also allows gas supplier choice:

Compare rates from alternative gas suppliers
Fixed-rate options for budget certainty
Same switching process as electricity

Hourly Pricing Programs

If you can shift usage to off-peak hours:

ComEd Hourly Pricing or Ameren Power Smart Pricing
Pay real-time market rates
Average 15% savings for participants who shift usage
Works well for renters with flexible schedules

Lower Your Bill Tonight: 5 Zero-Cost Energy Efficiency Tips for Your Apartment

You don't need to own your home to reduce energy use. These strategies work immediately and cost nothing.

1. Optimize Your Thermostat

Heating and cooling typically represent 40-50% of apartment energy use:

Winter: Set to 68°F when home, 60-65°F when away or sleeping
Summer: Set to 76-78°F when home, higher when away
Portable fans: Feel cooler without lowering AC
Layer clothing: Warm socks and sweaters cost less than cranking heat

Every degree of setback saves approximately 1-3% on heating/cooling costs.

2. Manage Phantom Loads

Electronics use power even when "off":

Unplug chargers when not charging
Use power strips for entertainment centers—switch off completely
Unplug small appliances (toasters, coffee makers) when not in use
Smart power strips automatically cut power to sleeping devices

Phantom loads can account for 5-10% of apartment electricity use.

3. Lighting and Appliance Habits

Turn off lights when leaving rooms
Use task lighting instead of overhead lights
Open blinds for natural light during day
Run full loads in dishwasher and washing machine
Wash clothes in cold water
Air-dry clothes when possible

4. Window and Door Management

Winter: Open blinds on sunny days for free heat; close at night for insulation
Summer: Close blinds on sun-facing windows during afternoon
Use draft stoppers under doors if drafty
Temporary window film can add insulation (removable, renter-friendly)

5. Water Heating Efficiency

Even if you don't control the water heater:

Take shorter showers
Use low-flow showerheads (often renter-installable)
Run dishwasher instead of hand-washing (usually more efficient)
Wash clothes in cold water

Renter-Friendly Upgrades

Small investments that move with you:

LED bulbs: Replace inefficient bulbs the landlord provides; take LEDs with you when you move
Smart power strips: $20-40, eliminate phantom loads automatically
Portable fans: Supplement AC for less
Low-flow showerheads: $15-30, often easy to swap and take with you
Door draft stoppers: $10-20, prevent heat/cool loss
Thermal curtains: Add insulation value to windows

Communicate with Your Landlord

While landlords rarely pay for major upgrades, it doesn't hurt to ask:

Point out specific issues (drafty windows, old appliances)
Mention that efficiency improvements increase property value
Some landlords will provide smart thermostats or LEDs
Document efficiency issues—they may affect habitability if severe

For renters looking to maximize savings, combine community solar, supplier shopping, and behavioral changes for the biggest impact. You don't need to own your home to control your energy costs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I participate in community solar as a renter?

Yes! Community solar is ideal for renters. You need a utility account in your name with ComEd or Ameren Illinois—that's it. No landlord permission required, no installation on your building, and most programs require no upfront payment. If you move within the same utility territory, your subscription typically transfers.

Do I need my landlord's permission to switch electricity suppliers?

No. If the electricity account is in your name, you have full authority to choose your supplier. This is your account with the utility—your landlord has no involvement. You can shop for rates, choose green products, or enroll in hourly pricing without any permission.

What if my utilities are included in rent?

If utilities are included, you have less direct incentive to conserve since your payment doesn't change with usage. However, landlords may raise rent if costs increase. You won't have your own account to participate in community solar or choose suppliers. Focus on efficiency habits and ask if the landlord uses efficient equipment.

Can I install a smart thermostat in my apartment?

This requires landlord permission since it involves modifying the HVAC system. Some landlords will allow it, especially if you offer to leave it when you move. Alternatively, ask if your landlord will install one—utility rebates can offset the cost. If your landlord refuses, focus on manual thermostat management and other efficiency measures.

Conclusion

Renting in Illinois doesn't mean accepting high energy bills as inevitable. While you can't make major structural changes, you have real options: community solar provides renewable energy savings without installation, supplier shopping can reduce your rates, and smart habits cut consumption immediately.

Start with the low-hanging fruit—adjust thermostat habits, eliminate phantom loads, switch off lights. Then explore community solar programs that deliver guaranteed savings. Finally, compare electricity suppliers to ensure you're getting competitive rates.

Every strategy you implement puts money back in your pocket and moves you toward lower, more predictable energy costs—regardless of whose name is on the deed.

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