ComEd has submitted a $15.3 billion, four-year electric grid investment plan to the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC), outlining proposed infrastructure upgrades from 2028 through 2031 to address rising electricity demand across northern Illinois.

The plan includes investments in new substations, transformers, and other grid infrastructure, as well as the replacement of aging equipment and improvements to support the integration of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar. According to ComEd, demand has increased at more than 70 substations within its service territory, which serves approximately 4.1 million customers.

If approved, the grid plan would be reviewed by the ICC over an expected 11-month regulatory process, with a decision anticipated by December 2026. ComEd said the proposal could result in an increase of $2.50 to $3.00 per month on average residential customer bills beginning in 2028, with additional adjustments in later years.

The filing is required under Illinois’ Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and represents the utility’s second four-year grid plan. ComEd’s first plan, covering the 2024–2027 period, was approved by regulators in December 2024 after revisions.

Consumer advocacy groups, including the Citizens Utility Board, said they plan to review the proposal and assess its potential impact on customers.

Source: chicagotribune.com