The next step in lowering electric rates 46% (not Com Ed’s delivery charge) has taken place.

Direct Energy has notified residents of the municipalities which awarded it the contract (Woodstock, Huntley, Lakewood, Ringwood and Genoa) that they have the right to ope-out of the bulk buying contract.

Here’s the letter (click to enlarge):

If you are in unincorporated McHenry County or one of the municipalities who didn’t pass electric aggregation, you can sign up individually with any number of companies.

But, you’ll have to do it on your own.