NewsNBC Chicago – LocalJuly 1, 2026United States
ComEd Urges Electricity Conservation in Parts of Chicago and Western Suburbs Due to Heat
ComEd has issued a request for residents and businesses in specific Chicago neighborhoods and western suburbs to reduce electricity usage due to extreme heat straining the power grid. The utility is asking customers to limit energy consumption between noon and 8 p.m. to prevent potential power outages.
Read the full story at NBC Chicago – LocalWhy It Matters
Residents in the affected areas are being asked to adjust their daily energy habits to maintain stability and avoid service interruptions during a multi-day extreme heat event.
Key Facts
- ComEd has designated the power grid in specific western suburbs and Chicago neighborhoods as being at a 'critical level'.
- Customers are requested to reduce electricity usage immediately, specifically between the hours of 12:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.
- Large commercial and industrial customers are specifically asked to reduce electricity consumption.
- As of the report, no customers have lost electrical service.
- Recommended conservation actions include raising thermostats by four degrees, closing windows and blinds, and unplugging unused electronics.
- Residents are advised to delay the use of high-energy appliances like dishwashers, washing machines, and dryers until the evening.
- The extreme heat warning for northern Illinois is expected to remain in effect until Thursday night.
- Temperatures are reaching the mid-90s with heat index levels in the triple digits.
Who's Mentioned
organizationComEd“The utility provider managing the electrical grid in northern Illinois.”locationDouglas Park“Affected Chicago neighborhood.”locationBerwyn“Affected suburb.”locationCicero“Affected suburb.”locationStickney“Affected suburb.”locationOak Park“Affected suburb.”locationNorth Riverside“Affected suburb.”locationNorth Lawndale“Affected Chicago neighborhood.”locationLittle Village“Affected Chicago neighborhood.”organizationNBC Chicago“The news organization that obtained the text message sent to customers.”organizationNational Weather Service“The agency providing the extreme heat warning forecast.”locationRiverside“Affected suburb.”locationForest Park“Affected suburb.”locationGarfield Park“Affected Chicago neighborhood.”locationMaywood“Affected suburb.”locationAustin“Affected Chicago neighborhood.”