Illinois Recognized for Electrical Grid Modernization

CHICAGO – In the recently released 2014 Grid Modernization Index (GMI), Illinois ranked as the number three state in the nation based on its progress in modernizing its electric systems with smart grid technologies. The report, produced by the GridWise® Alliance and the Smart Grid Policy Center, evaluates and ranks states based on their progress in modernizing their electric systems with smart grid technologies.

The GMI applies a clearly defined set of criteria to evaluate the progress of state grid modernization efforts in three key areas: policy, customer engagement and grid operations. This year’s Index ranks all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Illinois moved up 10 points from its 2013 ranking, according to the GMI, “…clearly reflecting the implementation of its Energy Infrastructure Modernization Act.”

“The Energy Infrastructure Modernization Act (EIMA) that was passed by the Illinois General Assembly in 2011 continues to bring benefits to customers throughout the state,” said Anne Pramaggiore, ComEd president and chief executive officer. “The grid work ComEd has undertaken is a key component of the economic infrastructure of the region. This work is not only improving reliability for our customers, it is enhancing energy efficiency, creating thousands of jobs, and strengthening Illinois’ profile as a business hub. Illinois is well positioned to accelerate as a smart energy hub and we are dedicated to doing all we can to spur this development.”

As part of EIMA, ComEd is in the midst of a 10-year, $2.6 billion program to modernize its electrical grid. The program includes $1.3 billion to digitize the system into a Smart Grid. The Smart Grid includes installing advanced technology to help reduce customer power interruptions. For example, smart switches (also known as distribution automation devices) route power around potential problem areas, often with no noticeable interruption in service.

“ComEd worked extensively with all of its stakeholders to develop a comprehensive plan to modernize the grid” said Terence R. Donnelly, ComEd executive vice-president and chief operating officer. “Our efforts are paying off through more than one million avoided outages as well as an accelerated deployment plan for smart meters designed with consumer benefits through programs like our peak time rebates”

The GMI looks at three areas in making its rankings: state support, customer engagement and grid operations. These scores are influenced by many factors including regulatory and customer outreach, improved training of utility workforce and implementation of advanced technology. Illinois has the highest score of all 50 states in state support which is reflective of strong energy policies, energy efficiency resource standards and regular reporting to legislators.

Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd) is a unit of Chicago-based Exelon Corporation (NYSE: EXC), the nation’s leading competitive energy provider, with approximately 6.6 million customers. ComEd provides service to approximately 3.8 million customers across northern Illinois, or 70 percent of the state’s population.

Press release dated Dec. 9, 2014.  The entire report is available at www.gridwise.org.

Related article:

ComEd’s Smart Ideas® Energy Efficiency Program To Reach $1 Billion in Customer Savings Milestone

CHICAGO – ComEd customers looking to reduce their energy use and save money on their electric bill can turn to the electric company’s Smart Ideas program for a variety of energy-saving solutions. Since its launch in 2008, the ComEd Smart Ideas program has helped customers save more than $950 million on their electric bills and reduce energy usage by more than 9.8 million megawatt-hours, enough to power one million homes for a year. By end of 2014, customer savings are expected to reach over one billion dollars.

“We’ve made a commitment to help our customers manage their energy use– a commitment represented by our Smart Ideas program. Our goal is to equip our customers with the right tools and knowledge to help them make smarter energy decisions,” said Val Jensen, senior vice president of Customer Operations, ComEd. “This is a significant mile stone for our energy efficiency program, which is one of the largest programs of its kind in the nation and we look forward to continuing to grow ComEd’s Smart Ideas and bringing more value to our customers.”

Read full article here.