ComEd expands Wilton Center substation
The expansion will boost renewable energy capacity, enabling over 2,000 MW from wind and solar projects across Illinois and PJM region by 2026.
Image for illustrative purposes
USA, Illinois, Will County: ComEd has completed an expansion of its 765 kV Wilton Center substation in southern Will County, Illinois, allowing several large-scale wind and solar projects to connect to the ComEd grid and the wider PJM energy market starting in 2026.
“The expansion will allow ComEd to deliver more than 2,000 MW of new renewable generation to meet rising electricity demand for homes and businesses,” said ComEd President and CEO Gil Quiniones. “Connecting large volumes of renewable energy in the PJM zone also helps moderate energy costs, ” he concluded.
The substation yard has grown by 50 % to 140,000 m2 (1.5 million sq ft). Environmental impact was minimised by reusing 80,000 tonnes of topsoil and 90,000 tonnes of on-site clay, avoiding the need for import or export of soil. New equipment includes 765 kV circuit breakers, current and voltage transformers, disconnect switches, surge arresters, and upgraded protection and control systems. A new detention pond now holds 2.8 million gallons of stormwater.
By mid-2026, the substation will support five wind farms and two solar farms, delivering up to 2,450 MW of renewable energy. Key projects include the 850 MW Heritage Prairie Wind Farm with 300 MW solar expansion, two 400 MW Panther Grove wind farms, the 200 MW Lower Crossing Wind Farm, and the 150 MW Osagrove Flats Wind Farm with an additional 150 MW solar expansion.
Construction was led by ComEd crews and Lindblad Construction, with Burns & McDonnell providing engineering and design support.
Source: T&D World
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