NewsNBC Chicago – LocalJuly 1, 2026United States
ComEd Urges Energy Conservation During Extreme Heatwave
ComEd has requested that residents in specific Chicago-area suburbs and neighborhoods reduce electricity usage due to extreme heat putting the power grid at a critical level. The utility company and the Illinois Commerce Commission are providing guidance on how to lower energy consumption to prevent grid strain and manage costs.
Read the full story at NBC Chicago – LocalWhy It Matters
Residents in affected areas are asked to limit electricity use between noon and 8 p.m. to prevent potential power failure during an ongoing extreme heatwave.
Key Facts
- ComEd has declared the power grid is at a 'critical level' in parts of Chicago and western suburbs.
- Residents are asked to limit electricity use immediately, specifically between noon and 8 p.m.
- An extreme heat warning is in effect for all of northern Illinois, with temperatures in the mid-90s and heat indices reaching triple digits.
- ComEd is sending text messages to customers in areas where heat is impacting equipment.
- Recommended conservation steps include raising thermostats by four degrees, closing windows and blinds, and unplugging unused electronics.
- The Illinois Commerce Commission recommends installing programmable thermostats, scheduling AC maintenance, and sealing leaks around doors and windows.
- The extreme heat is expected to continue through the upcoming holiday weekend.
Who's Mentioned
organizationIllinois Commerce Commission“State regulatory body providing energy conservation guidance.”organizationComEd“Utility company managing the power grid and issuing conservation requests.”locationDouglas Park“Chicago neighborhood requested to limit electricity use.”locationBerwyn“Area requested to limit electricity use.”locationCicero“Area requested to limit electricity use.”locationStickney“Area requested to limit electricity use.”locationOak Park“Area requested to limit electricity use.”locationNorth Riverside“Area requested to limit electricity use.”locationNorth Lawndale“Chicago neighborhood requested to limit electricity use.”locationLittle Village“Chicago neighborhood requested to limit electricity use.”organizationNBC Chicago“News outlet that obtained a copy of the conservation text message.”locationRiverside“Area requested to limit electricity use.”personDoug Scott“Chairman of the Illinois Commerce Commission.”locationForest Park“Area requested to limit electricity use.”locationGarfield Park“Chicago neighborhood requested to limit electricity use.”locationMaywood“Area requested to limit electricity use.”locationAustin“Chicago neighborhood requested to limit electricity use.”