ComEd's first ever training center for employees is now open. The utility unveiled the Rockford facility to the public Wednesday afternoon. The new facility was prompted by a major infrastructure plan.
Up until now, ComEd has used trailers to train its staff. But Illinois lawmakers approved a law in 2011 that calls on the company to modernize its electric grid. Com Ed CEO Anne Pramaggiore says that means a facility upgrade was needed.
"Training and skill development is key to creating a true, 21st century electrical grid. This facility will play a vital role in our efforts to deliver on that promise" Pramaggiore said.
The new training center features indoor and outdoor pole climbing yards, along with a customer education area. Last month, Com-Ed was granted permission to delay the "Smart Meter" element of its infrastructure plan. The company says unfavorable rate rulings by the Illinois Commerce Commission left it short of the money needed to fully implement its modernization program.