
Chicago's electrical landscape is vibrant and diverse, with a constant demand for highly skilled electricians. The city's electrical companies offer a wide range of services, from design-build solutions to energy-efficient upgrades and advanced system integrations. One of the largest electric utilities in Chicago is Commonwealth Edison, also known as ComEd, which serves more than 3.5 million customers and has been in business for over 100 years. Other notable electrical companies in Chicago include Gibson Electric & Technology Solutions, Connelly Electric, All Tech Energy, Genesis Electric & Technology, and Sharlen Electric Company, each bringing their unique expertise and specializations to cater to the diverse needs of the city.
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What You'll Learn

History of Commonwealth Edison
Commonwealth Edison, commonly abbreviated as ComEd, is the largest electric utility company in Illinois and the primary electric provider in Chicago and much of Northern Illinois. The company provides electricity to more than 3.8 million customers across the state and generated revenues of over $7 billion in 2023.
The earliest predecessor of Commonwealth Edison was the Isolated Lighting Company, established in 1881 by George H. Bliss as a subsidiary of Thomas Edison's company. The following year, the company was taken over by the Western Edison Light Company, which was chartered by several prominent Chicagoans to act as Edison's agent in the city and develop a central station electric system. Western Edison installed the first incandescent lighting in a Chicago home in 1882. In 1887, John M. Clark (president of Western Edison), Robert Todd Lincoln, and John B. Drake obtained a franchise from Chicago to distribute electricity in the downtown area, bounded by North Avenue, 39th Street, and Ashland Avenue.
In 1894, a much larger power plant was constructed on Harrison Street, west of the Chicago River. With an original capacity of 6,400 kilowatts, it was the largest in the United States at the time. The Harrison Street Station reached its capacity within a few years and was expanded to 16,200 kilowatts by 1903. In 1907, Chicago Edison combined with Commonwealth Electric to form the Commonwealth Edison Company. Insull, the founder of the Public Service Company of Northern Illinois, also played a significant role in the development of rural electrification outside Chicago.
In 1994, ComEd reorganised as a holding company, Unicom Corporation, with ComEd as its primary subsidiary. In 1997, the Illinois General Assembly passed the Electric Service Customer Choice and Rate Relief Law, which ordered Commonwealth Edison to provide customers with the option to buy electricity from other suppliers. This law also reduced base residential electric prices and froze the reduced rates for ten years. As a result, Commonwealth Edison sold its coal-fired and nuclear generating stations in 2000 and 2003, respectively, to distance itself from any allegations of bias in the competitive process.
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CECCo's work at Wheaton College
CECCo, Chicago's leading electrical contractor, has been operating since 1912. The company has completed over 25,000 projects, including work on many of Chicago's most iconic landmarks. CECCo provides a comprehensive range of electrical solutions, from design and prefabrication to construction, diagnostics, maintenance, and repair.
One of CECCo's notable projects was its work at Wheaton College. CECCo was involved in the demolition of half of the old Wheaton College Performing Arts Center and played an integral role in creating the new space. While specific details of the electrical work are not publicly available, CECCo's scope of services and long-standing expertise suggest that they contributed significantly to the electrical design and infrastructure of the new performing arts center.
Wheaton College, located in Massachusetts, strives to provide its staff and faculty with a challenging and rewarding work environment. The college is committed to fostering an atmosphere that welcomes differences, encourages learning, and values collaboration, creativity, and diversity. The Human Resources department plays a pivotal role in maintaining this culture, offering a broad range of services to attract, support, and retain talented individuals. The college also prioritizes equal opportunities and non-discrimination, ensuring a safe and inclusive work environment for all.
As a leading electrical contractor in Chicago, CECCo's involvement in the Wheaton College project exemplifies their capability to undertake complex and diverse assignments. By assisting with the demolition and creation of new spaces, CECCo's expertise in electrical solutions, construction, and diagnostics would have been pivotal in transforming the performing arts center. While the specifics of the project remain undisclosed, CECCo's extensive experience and reputation for innovation suggest that they played a crucial role in ensuring the successful electrical redevelopment of the Wheaton College Performing Arts Center.
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Gibson Electric's commitment to safety
Safety and quality are at the core of Gibson Electric's ethos. As a leading electrical company in Chicago, Gibson Electric & Technology Solutions understands the importance of safety in all aspects of its operations. With a diverse range of projects, including commercial, industrial, and institutional endeavours, Gibson Electric prioritises the well-being of its employees, clients, and the general public.
The company's dedication to safety extends beyond its own workforce. Gibson Electric actively engages with the communities it serves, promoting electrical safety awareness and education. This includes hosting safety seminars, participating in community events, and providing educational resources to local schools and organisations. By empowering individuals with knowledge about electrical safety, Gibson Electric helps foster a culture of safety throughout Chicago.
Additionally, Gibson Electric employs rigorous safety checks and inspections at every stage of their projects. From design to construction and final implementation, their safety standards are meticulously applied and monitored. This proactive approach ensures that potential hazards are identified and mitigated before they become issues, thereby safeguarding their workers, clients, and the general public.
Gibson Electric's steadfast dedication to safety is a cornerstone of their success. By prioritising safety, they have established themselves as a trusted and reliable electrical company in Chicago. Their unwavering commitment to safety, coupled with their expertise and innovation, positions them as a leader in the industry and a go-to choice for clients seeking comprehensive electrical solutions.
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Sharlen Electric's institutional clients
Sharlen Electrics is a full-service electrical contractor with a strong reputation for quality workmanship and reliable communication. The company serves a wide range of institutional clients in Chicago and Northwest Indiana, including public school systems, universities, municipalities, and healthcare facilities. With decades of experience, Sharlen Electric has become a trusted partner for electrical contracting needs in the healthcare and medical industry.
The company's services for institutional clients go beyond electrical contracting. Sharlen Electric offers a comprehensive range of services, including underground utilities, telecommunications, 24/7 emergency services, and energy audits. Their hands-on project management and proactive problem-solving approach have been praised by clients. Sharlen Electric is committed to ensuring that their projects meet or exceed expectations, with a particular focus on the design phase.
One of Sharlen Electric's notable strengths is their ability to handle a diverse range of projects. Whether it's new construction or renovations, the company provides electrical solutions for wiring, fire alarm and security systems, network cabling, generators, CCTV, lighting, and controls. Sharlen Electric's institutional clients can rely on their expertise to ensure the safe and efficient operation of their facilities.
Sharlen Electrics institutional clients in Chicago and Northwest Indiana can attest to the company's dedication to delivering exceptional electrical contracting services. With their extensive experience, reliable reputation, and commitment to meeting client expectations, Sharlen Electric has established itself as a trusted partner for institutional electrical needs in the region.
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Genesis Electric's safety inspections
Chicago's electrical landscape is vibrant and diverse, with a constant demand for highly skilled electricians. Genesis Electrics is one of the top electrical contractors in Chicago, offering versatile electrical services that span residential and commercial requirements.
Genesis Electrics & Technology stands out for its commitment to safety inspections, ensuring that all electrical installations are up to code and safe for the public. They are meticulous in their work, ensuring that electrical systems are installed correctly and meet all municipal codes. This includes upgrading wiring in older properties, as well as lighting design and energy optimization. Their team is responsive and professional, making them a preferred provider for electrical contractors in Chicago.
Safety is a key focus for Genesis Electrics, and they play a crucial role in ensuring that Chicago's infrastructure runs safely and efficiently. Their work encompasses inspecting electrical installations, fire alarms, and life safety emergency systems in various buildings and institutions. They also respond to complaints of code violations and make the necessary corrections. This proactive approach helps to maintain the highest safety standards and prevent electrical issues, fires, and other hazards.
As a leading electrical contractor, Genesis Electrics understands the importance of staying up-to-date with electrical safety regulations. They are well-versed in the Chicago Building Code, which outlines the electrical regulations that all installations must adhere to. By complying with these regulations, Genesis Electrics ensures that their work meets the required safety standards, giving their clients peace of mind.
In addition to their safety inspections, Genesis Electrics also offers a range of electrical services to cater to the diverse needs of Chicago's residents and businesses. They are experienced in electrical construction, technology integration, and progressive energy solutions. Whether it's a simple repair, the relocation of an electrical panel, or a new installation, Genesis Electrics provides fast, expert service with a focus on responsiveness and professionalism.
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Frequently asked questions
Commonwealth Edison, commonly known as ComEd, is the largest electric utility company in Illinois and the primary electric provider in Chicago.
Commonwealth Edison has been the primary electric delivery services company for Northern Illinois for over 100 years. It serves more than 3.5 million customers and its revenue totalled more than $7 billion in 2023.
Sharlen Electric Company is a well-known electrical contractor in Chicago, especially in the healthcare and medical industries. They have completed a variety of projects, including infrastructure and public utility projects. Gibson Electric & Technology Solutions is another leading electrical company in Chicago, specialising in commercial, industrial, and institutional projects.
Yes, there are several other notable electrical companies in Chicago, including Connelly Electric, All Tech Energy, and Genesis Electric & Technology. These companies offer a range of services, from design-build solutions to energy-efficient lighting and electrical systems.











































