Since December 2017, WPS has collaborated with the ComEd Energy Efficiency Program and its authorized energy efficiency service providers to swap out existing electric equipment with reliable, resilient and energy-efficient lighting fixtures and bulbs; surge protected outlets and smart strips; refrigeration and kitchen parts and equipment; fire exit signs; air conditioner components and other energy-saving measures at multiple school buildings.
“We believe everyone has an equal right to clean air and affordable energy, which is why we are proud to offer energy efficiency programs to help customers save energy and money, while helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change,” said Melissa Washington, senior vice president of customer operations for ComEd. “ComEd is honored to be part of such a massive undertaking with the Waukegan Public Schools to enhance the environment by improving lighting in classrooms, halls, gymnasiums, parking lots and other areas accessed by students, staff and the community.”

In recent years, Waukegan Public Schools, also known as Waukegan Community Unit School District #60, has made efforts to take advantage of all the incentives offered by utilities to improve the district’s energy efficiency. This year alone, the district switched from fluorescent lighting to LED lighting in 26 school buildings throughout the district. District staff also worked with ComEd-recommended engineers to study building automation systems and implement recommended changes to improve efficiency. Most recently, the district worked with ComEd to install smart power strips that cut down on residual draws of electricity from idling computer screens and printers.