Data centers will cost ComEd $3 billion, but consumer groups worry Illinois households will be on the hook
ComEd projects it will spend about $3.1 billion to connect large-load users believed to be data centers, but has collected only about $721 million in deposits and advance commitments. Consumer groups warn Illinois households could bear the cost if projects are canceled, while ComEd says new agreements protect transmission investments and that deposits may increase.
ComEd estimates that connecting 30 large-load projects in Illinois will require approximately $3.1 billion in transmission and distribution upgrades. The utility has collected about $720.9 million in deposits and advance payment commitments, prompting consumer groups to warn that ratepayers could be responsible for stranded infrastructure if some projects do not proceed.
The Citizens Utility Board, Environmental Law & Policy Center and other advocates say data center developers should pay the full cost of grid improvements before connecting. ComEd disputes the analysis, citing transmission security agreements and ongoing work to determine distribution costs. The groups are backing the proposed POWER Act, which would require full upfront payment and impose protections related to pollution and water use; Gov. JB Pritzker has expressed support for data center regulation.