Significant upgrades to transmission systems will boost reliability, support economic growth for the region
ComEd today joined business and community leaders from Itasca and the surrounding area for a ribbon cutting event to mark the completion of a critical infrastructure investment at the transmission substation located in Itasca. These investments continue to support economic growth, prepare the region for future power needs, and increase reliability and resiliency of the local transmission system.
"ComEd has one of the most reliable grids in the nation, and that is a direct result of investments like the one we are celebrating today," said Gil Quiniones, President & CEO of ComEd. "At a critical a time when severe weather and electrification are on the rise, we are strengthening the region's energy infrastructure to support the growing needs of our communities and the companies who do business in northern Illinois."
The projects in Itasca are part of a series of transmission upgrades that ComEd is performing in the region. Over $1 billion in investments is planned for the energy needs and electricity capacity growth for homes and businesses in the Western O'Hare region of Illinois.
"At Choose DuPage, we work to position DuPage County and Chicagoland as a premier global business location – attracting companies to invest and grow in our region. Having reliable electric infrastructure is a critical component in our ability to do this," said Greg Bedalov, President & CEO, Choose DuPage. "As we draw nearer to the completion of the Western Access O'Hare project, we're seeing more opportunity in this area and these upgrades will help us meet that demand, while positioning the region for success in the future."
This substation project in Itasca was launched in 2022 and boosts the capacity and resiliency of the bulk 345kV transmission system, a high voltage network that moves power from generation locations to areas of the region where power needs are most concentrated, serving commercial and residential customers alike. The project also delivers hardening measures critical to ensuring the grid remains secure and flexible to withstand increased demand due to more frequent and severe weather events, as well as the growth of businesses, electrification and renewable energy.
"This project took a lot of effort and teamwork to get done," said Mayor Jeff Pruyn, Village of Itasca. "Because of that work, our region's power system is stronger and more reliable, helping keep homes, schools, and businesses running without interruption."
Capital upgrades include expansion of high voltage lines, new large power transformers and new gas insulated switchgear technology. ComEd worked closely with the Village of Itasca to develop the project in a way that maximizes security of the site, while minimizing visibility of infrastructure from Prospect Avenue and residential neighborhoods to the west and IL-390.
"Reliable power infrastructure is essential to keeping our region competitive and prepared for future growth. The $96 million in upgrades to the Itasca substation will strengthen our electric grid while creating jobs and supporting local business across the area," said Illinois State Representative Jennifer Sanalitro. "Thank you to ComEd and their partners on this project for their commitment to enhancing grid reliability for Illinois residents and businesses."
Construction on the $96 million project first kicked off in 2022, and was led by local, certified DBE construction firm, Ruiz Construction Systems.
"Today's ribbon-cutting ceremony marks a major milestone in ComEd's continued commitment to modernizing and strengthening the region's electrical infrastructure. Ruiz Construction Systems is proud to have contributed to the successful completion of the TSS101 Substation and is honored to support ComEd's forward-looking vision for a more resilient energy future.
This new facility stands as a testament to the shared commitment between ComEd and the Village of Itasca to invest in infrastructure that supports growth, innovation, and long-term economic development. It represents the kind of progress that ensures our communities are equipped to meet the demands of tomorrow.
Ruiz Construction Systems is thrilled to support ComEd's mission to enhance and future-proof Illinois' energy infrastructure. As our region's energy needs continue to evolve, we remain dedicated to delivering innovative solutions that foster progress, drive economic growth, and ensure a resilient future for all. Together, we are not just building infrastructure, we are laying the foundation for what comes next."
ComEd's investments in modernizing the grid have led to record-breaking advancements in reliability and are helping bring more businesses to the region every year. Last year alone, ComEd helped bring 15 new commercial projects to northern Illinois, with these facilities set to add nearly 1,400 jobs and more than $17 billion in local capital investment from those new businesses.
About ComEd
ComEd is a unit of Chicago-based Exelon Corporation (NASDAQ:EXC), a Fortune 200 company and one of the nation's largest utility companies, serving more than 10.7 million electricity and natural gas customers. ComEd powers the lives of more than 4 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, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, and YouTube.
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