License or Permit Bond - Retail Electric Supplier (RES/ARES)
This bond is required for Alternative Retail Electric Suppliers (ARES) operating in Illinois to obtain and maintain their license from the Illinois Commerce Commission. The bond amount ranges from $30,000 to $300,000 depending on the customer base served, ensuring suppliers fulfill their duties and obligations to prot…
Overview
What it is.
This bond is required for Alternative Retail Electric Suppliers (ARES) operating in Illinois to obtain and maintain their license from the Illinois Commerce Commission. The bond amount ranges from $30,000 to $300,000 depending on the customer base served, ensuring suppliers fulfill their duties and obligations to prot…
Who usually needs it
Alternative Retail Electric Suppliers (ARES) and Retail Electric Suppliers (RES) who want to sell electricity to retail customers in Illinois must obtain this bond as part of their certification application and maintain it continuously throughout their operations.
Pricing & timing
What to expect.
Generic pricing
Utility bonds are required by utility companies to guarantee payment for services. Typical Pricing:. • Small utility bonds: Typically $100–$250 per year (flat fee). • Larger utility bonds: Commonly around 1–5% of the bond amount annually. • Credit impact: Good credit: starting around 1–2% · Average credit: typically 2–4% · Credit challenges: often 4–5% or higher. Most utility bonds qualify for instant approval. Bond amounts are typically set by the utility company based on expected usage.</…
Typical timeframe
Issuance timeframe varies by bond type and underwriting
Application
What to do next.
Tell us the bond name, state, and amount on your form.
Share business and applicant info so the team can quote it.
Sign and pay; we issue the bond and send you the documents.
Keep your effective date and renewal date on file with us.
Start the application.
You are on the exact bond page. The next step is to start the quick application.
StateILBond amount$30,000ObligeeIllinois Commerce Commission (ICC)Bond classUtility BondCategoryUtilities & EnergyBondLicense or Permit Bond - Retail Electric Supplier (RES/ARES)Plain descriptionThis bond is required for Alternative Retail Electric Suppliers (ARES) operating in Illinois to obtain and maintain their license from the Illinois Commerce Commission. The bond amount ranges from $30,000 to $300,000 de…Who needs this bondAlternative Retail Electric Suppliers (ARES) and Retail Electric Suppliers (RES) who want to sell electricity to retail customers in Illinois must obtain this bond as part of their certification application and maintain…
FAQ
Common questions.
What determines the bond amount for an Illinois ARES bond?
The bond amount depends on the customer base you serve: $30,000 if you only serve large nonresidential customers with maximum electrical demand of 1 megawatt or more; $150,000 if you serve nonresidential customers with annual consumption greater than 15,000 kWh; and $300,000 if you serve all eligible retail customers including residential customers.
How long must I maintain my Illinois ARES bond?
You must maintain the bond continuously for at least one year and throughout your entire operation as an Alternative Retail Electric Supplier in Illinois. If your bond decreases (for example, due to a claim being paid), you must file an additional or replacement bond at least 15 days in advance to keep the cumulative value at or above the required amount.
What is the Illinois ARES bond used for?
The bond ensures full and faithful performance of all duties and obligations required of Alternative Retail Electric Suppliers in Illinois. It protects consumers and the state by guaranteeing that suppliers comply with regulations under 83 Ill. Adm. Code 451.50. If you fail to meet your obligations, claims can be filed against the bond.
