The Community of the Future (COF) team identifies clean energy solutions, pilots, and projects that support the needs of communities in ComEd’s territory. Currently, Community of the Future primarily works in two communities in Illinois, Rockford and Bronzeville; however, proposed projects in other communities will be considered. The goals are to identify projects that align with community-identified needs, increase access to clean energy technologies and solutions, and advance community climate resilience and energy affordability. Ideally, these projects will continue to build awareness and momentum within communities through ambassadorship from community members who recognize and receive the benefits.
To meet these goals, the Community of the Future team will consider a broad range of project ideas across the spectrum of clean energy technologies, pilots, research, program designs, and delivery mechanisms. Regardless of project size and focus area, all projects must demonstrate benefit to the community. Project ideas should also describe potential pathways to organization or community ownership of this project once the pilot period is over, if applicable. Lastly, projects where the project recipient(s) or host(s) are willing to become ‘ambassadors’ about the benefits of the project after the pilot period will be given priority.
Review our focus areas and submit an idea below. For examples of past COF projects, please click here.
Affordability
Ideas for projects or pilots that help make energy use more affordable and reduce energy burden.
Access to Clean Energy
Ideas that close the gaps in access to clean energy technologies (such as solar, battery storage, EV and EV charging, etc.) within communities.
Climate Resiliency
Ideas that increase community resiliency during major storms, emergencies, climate events, and outages, and help communities better navigate these events with fewer disruptions to daily life.
