Illinois Recognized for Electrical Grid Modernization
December 09 2014 - 10:14AM
Business Wire
Grid modernization positions Illinois as third
in the Nation
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.
The entire report is available at www.gridwise.org.
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. For
more information visit ComEd.com, and connect with the company on
Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.
ComEd Media Relations312-394-3500
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