ComEd and Richardson Electronics Expand Battery Storage Manufacturing in Illinois
ComEd and Richardson Electronics, Ltd. (NASDAQ: RELL) have announced an expansion of battery energy storage manufacturing in Illinois, alongside plans to install a 5-megawatt-hour (MWh) onsite demonstration system at Richardson Electronics’ facility in La Fox. The initiative aims to strengthen local energy technology manufacturing, improve electricity grid reliability, and support the growing demand for affordable and dependable power.
The announcement brings together utility, manufacturing, and state economic development leaders to highlight the role of domestically produced battery energy storage systems (BESS) in Illinois’ evolving energy landscape. By expanding production capabilities and demonstrating the technology at its own facility, Richardson Electronics intends to advance the deployment of battery storage solutions for commercial and industrial customers.
Battery energy storage systems store electricity for later use, allowing energy users and utilities to respond more effectively to changing demand. These systems can help manage peak electricity consumption, support the integration of renewable energy, and improve the flexibility and resilience of the electric grid.
Expanding Illinois’ Energy Manufacturing Capabilities
Richardson Electronics, a long-established manufacturer headquartered in La Fox, Illinois, is developing what the companies describe as the largest commercial battery energy storage system in the state. The planned operational expansion is expected to support the development, manufacturing, and distribution of battery storage products as demand for energy infrastructure technologies increases.
As part of the initiative, Richardson Electronics is installing a 5-MWh research and development demonstration project. The installation will provide an opportunity to demonstrate its energy storage capabilities at an operating facility, with ComEd supporting the project through its customer interconnection process and associated engineering studies.
ComEd President and Chief Executive Officer Gil Quiniones said manufacturing has long been central to northern Illinois’ identity and continues to contribute to the region’s economic development. He emphasized the utility’s commitment to supporting business growth through investments in the electricity grid, with the goal of maintaining high reliability and competitive electricity rates for commercial and industrial customers.
Quiniones also highlighted the importance of providing businesses with the infrastructure needed to expand operations and compete in a changing energy market. Reliable electricity service is particularly important for manufacturers that depend on consistent power to maintain production schedules, control operating costs, and support long-term investment.
Demonstration Project to Support Energy Storage Innovation
Richardson Electronics plans to use its demonstration project to advance the development and application of battery energy storage technology. The installation will help showcase how commercial-scale storage systems can contribute to more efficient energy management while supporting the wider electricity network.
Greg Peloquin, Executive Vice President and General Manager of Richardson Electronics’ Power & Microwave Technologies and Green Energy Solutions groups, said the company has a long history of addressing complex power and energy challenges through innovation and US-based manufacturing.
He noted that the company’s advanced storage solutions are intended to help customers manage energy more efficiently while contributing to a reliable and resilient electricity grid. Peloquin also acknowledged ComEd’s collaboration in supporting the development and connection of the onsite demonstration project.
The installation is being advanced through the utility’s interconnection process, which is designed to ensure that distributed energy equipment can connect safely to the electricity network. Engineering assessments will help identify the technical requirements for integrating the system while maintaining reliable service for nearby customers.
The demonstration project also provides a practical example of how manufacturers can develop and test energy technologies at commercial facilities before pursuing broader deployment opportunities.
State Support for Economic Development
The expansion is supported by the Reimagining Energy and Vehicles in Illinois (REV Illinois) program, which is intended to encourage investment in emerging energy and transportation technologies. The program is helping Richardson Electronics strengthen its La Fox operations, advance energy technology manufacturing, and contribute to economic development across the state.
Christy George, President and CEO of the Illinois Economic Development Corporation, said increasing demand for reliable and affordable energy creates an opportunity for Illinois to manufacture as well as deploy new technologies.
She highlighted Richardson Electronics’ expansion as an example of how the state’s manufacturing capabilities can support emerging industries such as battery storage while strengthening the energy infrastructure underpinning economic activity.
State lawmakers have also emphasized the potential benefits of the project. State Representative Dan Ugaste of the 65th District said he became interested in the initiative after discussions with Kane County Commissioner Rick Williams and Richardson Electronics about its potential economic and energy benefits. Ugaste helped facilitate discussions with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to advance the project.
He noted that energy storage is expected to play an important role in supporting affordable and reliable electricity as demand increases.
State Representative Jeff Keicher of the 70th House District also welcomed Richardson Electronics’ continued investment in La Fox. He said initiatives that combine manufacturing innovation with energy infrastructure development can help create jobs, support local communities, and strengthen Illinois’ position in advanced manufacturing.
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