ComEd, a utility company based in Chicago is attempting to increase the use of Solar Energy in their area.  The utility company launched a twelve month solar energy initiative to equip 100 Chicago homes with solar panels.  According to The Green Optimistic, Val Jensen of ComEd states, “each of these homes will be tuned into a mini utility.  The pilot program will teach people how to plan electrical usage to avoid peak loading making them better energy consumers.   ComEd and its technology vendors will provide  $3 million for the project and The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act will provide $5million.”

The new smart grid is expected to be extended to 131,000 homes.  The Green Optimistic states that this solar energy pilot program will last for 12 months and will be the largest in the country offering a tiered pricing approach to pilot participants. Jensen said, “this is the largest program in the country focused on the customer experience”