Commonwealth Edison Company

https://ComEd.com

Commonwealth Edison Company, commonly known as ComEd, is the largest electric utility in Illinois, serving as the primary electric provider for Chicago and much of Northern Illinois. Headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, ComEd's mission extends beyond simply providing energy, aiming to be an "energy partner" to its customers.

ComEd delivers electricity to over 4 million customers, encompassing approximately 70% of Illinois's population across northern Illinois. The company manages a vast infrastructure, including 90,000 miles of power lines, 1.3 million poles, and 1,300 substations. Beyond electricity delivery, ComEd offers a range of services such as energy efficiency programs, payment assistance, smart energy solutions like smart grid and smart meters, support for electric vehicles and solar installations, and customer choice programs.

Gil Quiniones serves as the President and CEO of ComEd. In recent news, ComEd has initiated its annual reconciliation process for 2025, which, if approved, is projected to result in a net decrease in charges on customer bills in 2027. The company has also reported significant customer savings, totaling $13 billion, through its energy efficiency programs. ComEd operates as a subsidiary of Exelon Corporation, a major utility services holding company.

Latest updates

ComEd Seeks Rate Adjustments, Highlights Capacity Charge Pressures

Event summary

  • ComEd filed two reconciliation filings with the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) for 2025, aiming to adjust rates for 2027.
  • The revenue reconciliation seeks $128 million in refunds, potentially reducing average monthly residential bills by $1.09.
  • The cost reconciliation requests recovery of $234.3 million for grid operations and mandated programs, potentially decreasing bills by $0.13.
  • Beginning June 1, ComEd customers will see a $2-$3 monthly increase due to rising PJM capacity charges.

The big picture

ComEd's reconciliation filings highlight the ongoing tension between utilities' need to recover costs for grid modernization and state-mandated programs and the pressure to keep customer bills affordable. The rising capacity charges, driven by regional energy market dynamics, represent a significant headwind for ComEd and other utilities in the PJM region, potentially impacting their financial stability and political capital. This situation underscores the broader challenge of balancing decarbonization goals with affordability concerns in the energy sector.

What we're watching

Regulatory Scrutiny
The ICC’s approval of both reconciliation filings will be critical, and any pushback could signal broader regulatory challenges for ComEd.
Capacity Market
Whether ComEd and Illinois stakeholders can find long-term solutions to mitigate rising PJM capacity charges will directly impact customer affordability and ComEd’s financial performance.
Customer Affordability
The effectiveness of ComEd’s customer relief programs and discount initiatives in offsetting rising costs will be a key indicator of customer satisfaction and potential political pressure.

ComEd's $13 Billion Efficiency Program Signals Shift in Utility Cost Management

Event summary

  • ComEd customers have collectively saved $13 billion on energy costs since 2008 through the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program.
  • The program has distributed over $2.5 billion in incentives to customers since its inception.
  • The program has conserved nearly 112 million megawatt-hours of electricity, preventing 84 billion pounds of carbon emissions.
  • Illinois' energy efficiency sector supported approximately 90,000 jobs in 2024, representing two-thirds of the state's clean energy workforce.

The big picture

ComEd's substantial energy efficiency program underscores a growing trend among utilities to proactively address rising energy costs and environmental concerns. The program's scale—$13 billion in savings—demonstrates the potential for utilities to play a significant role in both customer affordability and decarbonization efforts. This strategy also positions ComEd favorably amidst increasing pressure from regulators and consumers to provide sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions, particularly given that supply costs are passed directly to customers.

What we're watching

Regulatory Scrutiny
Increased focus on energy efficiency programs may draw greater regulatory scrutiny regarding program design, cost-effectiveness, and customer impact, potentially impacting future funding and expansion.
Customer Adoption
The long-term success of ComEd’s strategy hinges on continued customer participation and adoption of energy-saving technologies, which could be affected by economic conditions and program accessibility.
Supply Chain Risk
The energy efficiency sector's reliance on specific materials and components exposes it to supply chain disruptions and price volatility, which could impact program implementation and affordability.

ComEd Faces Winter Bill Strain, Leans on Assistance Programs

Event summary

  • ComEd is urging customers in northern Illinois to utilize bill assistance programs following a winter with below-normal temperatures for approximately 55% of the season.
  • In 2025, ComEd connected over 220,000 customers to $108 million in financial assistance and relief programs.
  • ComEd does not set energy supply prices, which are passed on without profit.
  • ComEd plans to extend its Customer Relief Fund, initially capitalized at $10 million, in collaboration with Exelon.

The big picture

ComEd's proactive messaging around bill assistance underscores the ongoing challenge of energy affordability, exacerbated by extreme weather events and volatile supply costs. The utility's reliance on external funding and programs reveals a structural vulnerability tied to broader economic and political conditions. ComEd's parent company, Exelon, faces pressure to balance customer relief with the need to maintain profitability and invest in grid modernization.

What we're watching

Regulatory Scrutiny
Increased customer hardship may draw greater regulatory scrutiny of ComEd’s pricing practices and the adequacy of its assistance programs, potentially impacting future rate filings.
Political Pressure
The reliance on state and federal programs for bill relief highlights ComEd's vulnerability to shifts in political priorities and funding allocations, which could affect program availability.
Demand Response
The success of Peak Time Savings and similar programs will be crucial in mitigating future bill spikes, but adoption rates among customers will determine their overall effectiveness.

ComEd Launches Income-Based Bill Relief Program Amid Rising Energy Costs

Event summary

  • ComEd launched the Low-Income Discount (LID) program on January 1, 2026, offering percentage-based discounts on electric bills for qualifying income-eligible customers.
  • As of March 12, 2026, 240,000 ComEd customers are enrolled in the LID program, including 171,000 in Chicago.
  • The program is designed to supplement the state's Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and aims to reduce energy costs to 3%-6% of total household income.
  • The LID program is aligned with the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act and targets households earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level (up to $99,000 for a family of four).

The big picture

ComEd's LID program reflects a broader trend of utilities facing pressure to address energy affordability amidst rising supply costs and increasing regulatory scrutiny around equitable access. The program's success hinges on effective outreach and collaboration with community partners, as well as the stability of state-level energy assistance programs. This initiative is part of Exelon’s broader ‘Exelon Promise’ aimed at customer relief, highlighting the growing importance of social responsibility in the utility sector.

What we're watching

Program Adoption
The pace of LID enrollment will be a key indicator of program effectiveness and ComEd’s outreach capabilities, particularly given the self-enrollment requirement.
Regulatory Scrutiny
Continued reliance on state-level programs like LIHEAP exposes ComEd to potential regulatory changes impacting eligibility criteria and funding levels.
Supply Volatility
ComEd's inability to control energy supply prices will continue to create affordability challenges for customers, potentially necessitating further relief measures.

ComEd Introduces Time-of-Day Rates, Signals Broader Utility Shift

Event summary

  • ComEd launched a Delivery Time-of-Day (DTOD) pricing rate for residential customers in Illinois, effective immediately.
  • The DTOD rate structure adjusts electricity delivery charges based on the time of day, differing from standard rates.
  • EV owners enrolled in DTOD can receive $2 monthly bill credits for up to 24 months (limit of two vehicles).
  • ComEd plans to implement a unified time-of-day rate encompassing both Delivery and Supply services later this year.
  • The DTOD rate is expected to save customers approximately $2.31 per month, or roughly 5% of their electricity delivery cost.

The big picture

ComEd’s DTOD program represents a broader trend among utilities to shift away from flat-rate pricing models and incentivize off-peak consumption. This move is driven by the need to manage grid congestion, integrate renewable energy sources, and comply with state-level climate mandates like CEJA. The program’s success will hinge on customer adoption and the ability to effectively manage the complexities of integrating supply and delivery rates.

What we're watching

Regulatory Headwinds
The success of DTOD will be closely tied to ongoing legislative support and potential modifications stemming from the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA).
Customer Adoption
The pace of customer enrollment in DTOD will determine the program's impact on peak demand reduction and ComEd's ability to defer infrastructure investments.
Supply Rate Integration
How ComEd integrates Supply rates into the unified time-of-day structure will be crucial for maximizing customer savings and managing volatility from supply-demand imbalances.

ComEd Commits $70 Million to Accelerate EV Adoption in Northern Illinois

Event summary

  • ComEd announced $70 million in EV rebates for residential, business, and community customers in northern Illinois, starting in 2026.
  • The rebates are funded through ComEd’s Beneficial Electrification program, approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission.
  • Since 2024, ComEd has allocated over $160 million in EV funding, with over 80% directed to Equity Investment Eligible Communities (EIECs).
  • Programs include rebates for residential chargers (up to $2,500), fleet vehicles ($7,500 - $240,000), and charging infrastructure (up to $675/kW).

The big picture

ComEd’s substantial investment in EV rebates underscores the growing pressure on utilities to facilitate the transition to electric transportation. This initiative aligns with Illinois’ broader climate goals and represents a significant opportunity for ComEd to solidify its role in the state’s energy future. However, the program's success hinges on navigating regulatory approvals, ensuring equitable distribution of funds, and managing the potential impact on grid stability.

What we're watching

Regulatory Scrutiny
The ICC’s continued approval and oversight of ComEd’s Beneficial Electrification program will be crucial for the long-term viability of these rebate initiatives, particularly given ongoing scrutiny of utility spending.
Equity Distribution
The effectiveness of ComEd’s commitment to prioritize low-income communities and EIECs will be tested as rebate programs scale, and may draw attention from advocacy groups and regulators.
Grid Impact
The increased EV adoption spurred by these rebates will place a strain on the existing grid infrastructure, requiring ComEd to strategically invest in upgrades and potentially explore demand response programs to avoid bottlenecks.

ComEd's Targeted Energy Kit Program Garners Industry Recognition

Event summary

  • ComEd and Walker-Miller received the MEEA’s Inspiring Efficiency Marketing Award for their Energy Saving Kits program.
  • The program delivered approximately 20,000 kits in 2025, resulting in 12,300 MWh of electricity savings and 724,200 therms of natural gas savings.
  • The campaign generated roughly $3 million in combined customer savings on energy bills.
  • ComEd leverages market segmentation data and a mobile-friendly portal for targeted outreach to income-eligible customers.

The big picture

ComEd's recognition underscores the growing importance of targeted energy efficiency programs in meeting both environmental and social responsibility goals. The program's success, built on data-driven outreach and a user-friendly portal, represents a shift towards more personalized and accessible energy solutions. This approach is increasingly critical as utilities face pressure to reduce energy burdens and promote equitable access to clean energy resources, particularly within a regulatory landscape emphasizing social impact.

What we're watching

Program Scalability
The success of this targeted approach raises questions about whether ComEd can expand the program's reach beyond income-eligible households without diminishing its effectiveness.
Regulatory Scrutiny
Increased focus on energy equity may lead to greater regulatory oversight of utility programs and their impact on vulnerable populations.
Partner Dependency
ComEd’s reliance on Walker-Miller for kit distribution highlights potential risks associated with third-party implementation and the need for robust vendor management.

ComEd's Discount Program Aims to Offset Rising Energy Costs for 35,000 Illinois Households

Event summary

  • ComEd launched the Low-Income Discount (LID) program in January 2026, aligned with the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act.
  • The program provides tiered discounts (3% to 6% of income) on monthly electric bills for customers with household incomes up to 300% of the federal poverty level (up to $96,450 for a family of four).
  • Approximately 240,000 ComEd customers are currently enrolled, with the potential for over 35,000 households in Winnebago and Boone counties to qualify.
  • ComEd has previously provided over $108 million in financial assistance to more than 220,000 customers in 2025.

The big picture

ComEd's LID program represents a strategic response to rising energy costs and increasing pressure to address energy affordability for low-income households. The program is a direct consequence of the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, highlighting the growing role of state-level policy in shaping utility operations. This initiative underscores the broader trend of utilities facing demands to balance profitability with social responsibility, particularly as energy prices remain volatile and supply chain disruptions persist.

What we're watching

Program Adoption
The pace of LID enrollment will indicate the effectiveness of ComEd's outreach and the program's perceived value among eligible customers, potentially impacting future funding and expansion.
Regulatory Scrutiny
Continued upward pressure on energy supply costs may lead to increased regulatory scrutiny of ComEd's pricing and affordability initiatives, particularly given the program's reliance on passing on those costs.
Political Risk
The program's success is tied to the Illinois Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, meaning changes in state legislation or political priorities could impact its long-term viability.

ComEd Invests $1.3B in Grid Modernization Amidst Illinois Electrification Push

Event summary

  • ComEd invested over $1.3 billion in 2025 to modernize its grid infrastructure, including replacing over 4,700 utility poles and 269 miles of cable.
  • The utility awarded more than $500 million in rebates and incentives for electric vehicles, solar, and energy efficiency upgrades.
  • ComEd distributed over $108 million in financial assistance to more than 220,000 customers, including a $10 million Customer Relief Fund.
  • The utility interconnected 1.4 GW of distributed energy resources, up from 1 GW in 2024, and received awards for reliability and innovation.

The big picture

ComEd's 2025 investments reflect Illinois' aggressive clean energy goals and the broader national trend towards electrification. The utility faces the challenge of balancing affordability with the need for significant grid upgrades to accommodate growing demand and renewable energy sources. The success of ComEd's Long-Range Strategy will hinge on navigating regulatory approvals and managing the financial implications of these large-scale investments.

What we're watching

Regulatory Scrutiny
The ICC’s review of ComEd’s new multiyear grid plan will be critical, as it will determine the pace of future investments and potential rate increases.
Demand Growth
The utility's ability to manage unprecedented demand growth, particularly from data centers and electrification, will test the resilience of the modernized grid.
CEJA Impact
The full financial impact of the CEJA and CRGA Acts, particularly the Carbon Mitigation Credit (CMC) program, will shape customer bills and ComEd’s financial performance.

ComEd Grid Plan Signals Accelerated Electrification, Faces Affordability Scrutiny

Event summary

  • ComEd submitted its second multi-year grid plan (MYGP) to the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) covering 2028-2031.
  • The plan outlines $13 billion in planned investments across nine major commercial projects and an estimated 2,200 new jobs in the ComEd region.
  • ComEd projects average residential electricity costs will be 1.47% of household income in 2028 and 1.56% by 2031.
  • The ICC will make a decision on the MYGP by the end of 2026, following an 11-month review process.

The big picture

ComEd's grid plan reflects the broader push for electrification and renewable energy adoption in Illinois, driven by state legislation like CEJA and CRGA. The plan's success hinges on balancing ambitious clean energy goals with the imperative of maintaining affordability for a customer base increasingly sensitive to energy costs. The plan's reliance on advanced technologies and predictive analytics underscores the industry's shift towards data-driven grid management.

What we're watching

Regulatory Risk
The ICC’s approval process and any conditions imposed will significantly shape the scope and cost of ComEd’s grid investments, potentially impacting future rate filings.
Load Growth
The plan's ability to accommodate the projected surge in electricity demand at 70+ substations will be a key indicator of ComEd's operational agility and infrastructure planning effectiveness.
Cost Management
Whether ComEd can maintain affordability targets while executing a substantial investment plan will be critical, especially given broader inflationary pressures and potential customer pushback.

ComEd Allocates $515M for Community Grants, Signaling Regional Investment

Event summary

  • ComEd is offering $515,000 in grants through its 'Power for Good' programs, targeting environmental sustainability, public safety, and arts initiatives.
  • The grant programs are administered in partnership with Openlands (Green Region), Metropolitan Mayors Caucus (Powering Safe Communities), and the League of Chicago Theatres (Powering the Arts).
  • Since inception, the program has distributed nearly $6 million across hundreds of community-based projects in northern Illinois.
  • Applications are being accepted until March 13, 2026, at 5 p.m. CT.

The big picture

ComEd’s grant program represents a strategic effort to bolster its public image and foster goodwill within the communities it serves, particularly important given the utility’s history of regulatory oversight and infrastructure challenges. The $515 million allocation, while relatively small compared to Exelon's overall financials, demonstrates a commitment to localized community investment. This approach can mitigate regulatory risk and strengthen ComEd’s license to operate in a region increasingly focused on sustainability and social responsibility.

What we're watching

Regulatory Scrutiny
Increased public and regulatory scrutiny of utility spending on community programs could influence the allocation and approval of future grants, particularly given Exelon's past governance challenges.
Program Effectiveness
The demonstrable impact of these grants on stated objectives (environmental sustainability, public safety, arts access) will be critical for ComEd to justify ongoing investment and avoid potential criticism.
Political Alignment
The alignment of grant recipients and project priorities with evolving political landscapes in northern Illinois will shape the long-term viability and public perception of these initiatives.

ComEd Implements 'Take or Pay' Grid Access Agreements to Shield Customers from Project Risk

Event summary

  • ComEd has signed Transmission Security Agreements (TSAs) with eight large customers representing over 6.5 GW of new load.
  • The TSAs are designed to prevent existing ComEd customers from bearing up to $2 billion in transmission costs over 10 years if large projects fail to materialize.
  • The agreements mandate a 'take or pay' structure, requiring developers to provide financial collateral for 10 years of transmission service revenues.
  • ComEd is also seeking tariff modifications from the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) to increase application deposits and revenue requirements for large load customers.

The big picture

ComEd’s implementation of TSAs reflects a growing tension between the need for grid expansion to accommodate large data centers and renewable energy projects, and the desire to protect existing ratepayers from cost overruns and speculative investments. This model, while potentially replicable, highlights the increasing complexity of grid planning and the need for utilities to proactively manage financial risk in a rapidly evolving energy landscape. The move also underscores the broader challenge facing utilities in balancing the demands of new, high-load customers with the financial stability of their existing customer base.

What we're watching

Regulatory Scrutiny
The ICC’s decision on ComEd’s proposed tariff modifications will be critical in setting the precedent for future large load connections and could face pushback from developers.
Project Execution
The success of the TSAs hinges on the actual development and load realization of the eight projects; failure to meet commitments could trigger financial penalties and impact future project approvals.
Market Dynamics
How ComEd’s approach to managing large load requests will influence wholesale power market pricing and the utility’s ability to pass those costs onto customers remains a key factor.
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