‘ ComEd and EPRI Partner to Bring Locally Sourced Produce to Northern Illinois Communities\n\nCHICAGO, December 13, 2023–(BUSINESS WIRE)–ComEd and EPRI have joined forces to install four agricultural pods (ag pods) across northern Illinois, providing access to locally sourced produce and supporting education opportunities in agriculture. These ag pods, equipped with LED lighting, high-efficiency HVAC systems, and other technologies, create a controlled environment for year-round crop production.\n\nThe ag pods, managed by local organizations trained by ComEd, EPRI, and the farm’s manufacturer, include the Emerald South Economic Development Collaborative, Grow Greater Englewood, Northern Illinois University, and the Young Mens Educational Network. “ComEd is proud to collaborate on this project that will not only increase access to healthy food in our communities but also provide educational opportunities in agriculture,” said Gil C. Quiniones, CEO of ComEd.\n\nThe ag pods are equipped with an embedded system that allows farmers to remotely control lighting, temperature, and watering conditions, creating the ideal environment for produce to thrive. To continuously monitor each farm’s operation, EPRI and ComEd have installed a custom monitoring and verification system. “EPRI is excited to include ComEd as part of this larger collaborative project and explore potential opportunities from this CEA farm to benefit the northern Illinois community,” said Arshad Mansoor, president and CEO of EPRI.\n\nThese ag pods not only support the local production of a wide variety of crops but also contribute to the community through sustainable energy, water, and sustainability goals. “Indoor agriculture is a rapidly emerging industry across the United States, and we’re seeing innovative designs, technologies, and energy applications that benefit the community,” said Mansoor.\n\nIn addition to providing access to fresh, healthy food, these ag pods also offer educational and research opportunities for students and faculty. “Northern Illinois University is excited to partner with ComEd and EPRI on the installation of our ag pod grow container,” said Bryan Flower, assistant director of food systems innovation at NIU. “The amazing educational and research opportunities this unit will afford our students and faculty will be invaluable.”\n\nIn a ComEd’s collaboration with EPRI to install ag pods across northern Illinois highlights their commitment to sustainable and innovative solutions for the community.’