ComEd launches initiative to boost energy-efficiency careers in Northern Illinois
ComEd has announced the Market Development Initiative (MDI) to support local, diverse service providers and entrepreneurs in northern Illinois.
The programme aims to equip individuals, both newcomers and experienced professionals, with skills and tools to compete in the growing energy-efficiency sector. This initiative aligns with Illinois’ Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) and aims to expand clean energy technologies while creating job opportunities.
MDI includes new skills training programmes to support the growth of the energy-efficiency market, which is crucial for achieving clean energy goals.
A study commissioned by ComEd suggests that the transition to clean energy could result in a net increase of over 150,000 jobs in Illinois by 2050.
Carla Walker-Miller, CEO of Walker-Miller Energy Services, emphasised the importance of MDI, stating:
“For years, Walker-Miller Energy Services has collaborated with ComEd to help achieve energy-reduction goals, while taking an active role in helping other local, diverse businesses gain a foothold in the energy-efficiency industry
“As a part of MDI, we can contribute in a greater way to programs that help drive the broad adoption of energy-efficient practices and behaviours that ultimately lead to cost savings and a reduced carbon footprint.”
MDI aims to help families and businesses in northern Illinois access benefits from ComEd’s Energy Efficiency Programme, which offers services, rebates, and discounts to manage energy use and lower bills.
Since 2008, the programme has saved customers a total of $9 billion on energy bills and more than 82 million net megawatt-hours of electricity.
Melissa Washington, Senior Vice President of Customer Operations and Strategic Initiatives at ComEd, said:
“ComEd is committed to ensuring our local businesses and residents are well positioned to play a part in – and take advantage of – the expected growth in the energy-efficiency market.
“In collaboration with organizations across the region, MDI will deliver training necessary to help more local businesses join this expanding market, while improving chances for local residents to obtain good-paying jobs in the energy field.”
ComEd is introducing two new workforce training cohorts under its Workforce Development programme. These cohorts aim to grow the talent pipeline needed for ComEd and its partners in the energy-efficiency space. The next training session for new industry entrants begins oin August, and for experienced individuals in October.
The initiative will also help grow the pipeline of local, diverse-owned businesses by offering support for certification, navigating the procurement process, and joining a database of available vendors. More information and applications are available here.
Building on the Energy Efficiency Service Provider Incubator Programme, MDI will offer education and training on ComEd's energy efficiency portfolio, assistance with certification applications, business growth plans, and opportunities to build relationships with project financing lenders.
Completing the programme allows participants to apply to join the EESP Network.
Stephen Taylor, Director of Professional Services at The Will Group, who is collaborating with both ComEd and Walker-Miller on MDI, noted:
“This initiative aims to foster strong community involvement and support ComEd in developing a sustainable and skilled workforce. Our team is committed to delivering program messaging across multiple channels and supporting outreach efforts to ensure effective communication, strategic marketing, design, and community engagement.
“Our K-Town Business Centre in Chicago’s North Lawndale neighbourhood will serve as the program’s training hub for skilled professionals and newcomers in the energy efficiency sector. This place-based strategy investment provides a local venue for workforce development. We are optimistic it will create meaningful career opportunities and advancements in the energy efficiency field.”
