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ComEd Energizes State-of-the-Art Grocery Distribution Center in Illinois

Business Wire•05/10/2026•13:40 ET
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Key Highlights

  • ➤Walmart’s 1.2 million-square-foot Belvidere grocery distribution center is slated to open in 2027
  • ➤ComEd energized a new 138 kV substation supporting Walmart’s future Belvidere facility
  • ➤Substation capacity positions Belvidere for future industrial growth across food, agriculture, and logistics
  • ➤ComEd’s economic-development efforts helped attract 95 projects, 24,000-plus jobs, and nearly $50 billion in capital
  • ➤Walmart (WMT) reported fiscal year 2026 revenue of $713 billion

Expert Statements

Gil Quiniones, President and CEO of ComEd

“ComEd is committed to delivering safe, reliable power that advances economic growth in northern Illinois and supports our thriving communities. We are proud that our grid infrastructure continues to help attract major companies like Walmart to do business in our region, and we look forward to expanding this facility in the future to serve the growing need for electricity in the area.”

Shayne Wahlmeier, Senior Vice President, Energy, Walmart

“Investments like Belvidere are ultimately about serving our customers and making our supply chain stronger. It’s a great example of how we’re planning for energy alongside the growth of our business.”

Christy George, President and CEO of Illinois Economic Development Corporation

“Major investments require major infrastructure. ComEd’s new substation is a great example of how Team Illinois is preparing communities to compete for growth. By creating capacity for future industrial development, investments like this strengthen the advantages that help Illinois attract businesses, investment, and jobs.”

Pamela Lopez-Fettes, CEO of Growth Dimensions

“This milestone demonstrates the power of collaboration to drive long-term economic growth. Walmart’s investment will expand opportunities for local residents, while ComEd’s infrastructure investment positions Boone County for continued growth in food and agriculture, logistics, and other high-growth industries.”

Steve Stadelman, Illinois State Senator

“Economic growth without a strong energy grid really isn't possible. Investment by utility companies that provide jobs of their own empowers other companies to expand and hire, and those workers spend money that leads to more jobs that support more families and strengthen communities like Belvidere.”

ComEd Energizes State-of-the-Art Grocery Distribution Center in Illinois

New ComEd Substation marks a key step toward continued growth in the region, powering Walmart’s future Belvidere facility

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