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

BELVIDERE, Ill.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--ComEd today joined local officials to energize the high-voltage substation and electric infrastructure that will power a new Walmart perishable grocery distribution center in Belvidere, slated to open in 2027. This state-of-the-art center will process and distribute fresh and frozen products to Walmart stores across the Great Lakes region, relying on 24/7 electric service to support its operations.

“ComEd is committed to delivering safe, reliable power that advances economic growth in northern Illinois and supports our thriving communities,” said ComEd President and CEO Gil Quiniones. “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.”

This high-voltage substation provides essential infrastructure and reliable power to enable the 1.2 million square-foot facility’s equipment and associates to rapidly process and distribute fresh and frozen products to stores across a large geographic area 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The selection of the Belvidere location reflects investment in Illinois. Previously farmland, the new 138 kV substation is located on a 6.8-acre parcel near the Walmart site and provides capacity to support future industrial growth in the region.

“Investments like Belvidere are ultimately about serving our customers and making our supply chain stronger,” said Shayne Wahlmeier, Walmart Senior Vice President, Energy. “It’s a great example of how we’re planning for energy alongside the growth of our business.”

Earlier this year, ComEd energized a new 138-kV substation on a 6.8-acre site, leveraging existing distribution infrastructure to serve the facility. The investment not only supports Walmart’s operations but also positions the Belvidere area for future growth.

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

“This milestone demonstrates the power of collaboration to drive long-term economic growth,” said Pamela Lopez-Fettes, CEO of Growth Dimensions. “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.”

This project is a proof point of the critical role energy infrastructure plays in attracting investment and creating jobs in Illinois. ComEd was recently named a national leader in economic development by Site Selection Magazine, marking its 11th time earning the “Top Utilities” distinction for attracting jobs and investment, reflecting a track record that includes helping attract 95 major business expansion projects, supporting more than 24,000 jobs and nearly $50 billion in committed capital investment.

"Economic growth without a strong energy grid really isn't possible,” said Illinois State Senator Steve Stadelman. “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."

To learn more about the economic impact of ComEd’s grid, please visit: ComEd.com/Impact.

About ComEd
ComEd is a unit of Chicago-based Exelon Corporation (NASDAQ: EXC), a Fortune 200 company and one of the nation’s largest utility companies, serving more than 10.7 million electricity and natural gas customers. ComEd powers the lives of more than 4.2 million customers across northern Illinois, or 70 percent of the state’s population. For more information, visit ComEd.com, and connect with the company on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and YouTube.

About Walmart
Walmart Inc. (Nasdaq: WMT) is a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer helping people save money and live better - anytime and anywhere - in stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, approximately 280 million customers and members visit more than 10,900 stores and numerous eCommerce websites in 19 countries. With fiscal year 2026 revenue of $713 billion, Walmart employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy, and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting corporate.walmart.com, on Facebook at facebook.com/walmart, on X (formerly known as Twitter) at twitter.com/walmart, and on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/walmart.