The smart grid industry in Illinois plays a crucial role in modernizing electricity distribution and management. It involves a blend of technologies that enhance the reliability and efficiency of energy delivery, including energy storage, automation, and renewable integration. Companies in this sector provide solutions that facilitate energy management, support renewable energy sources, and improve infrastructure reliability. As the demand for cleaner energy solutions grows and technology advances, this industry is evolving to meet market requirements, showing a clear shift towards sustainable energy practices and innovative service models.

Illinois hosts a mix of smart grid companies, varying in size from small firms to established enterprises. Founded as early as 1905, these companies focus on areas such as power distribution, energy storage, and automation solutions. Many are headquartered in urban centers like Chicago and Peoria, reflecting a strong regional commitment to advancing energy technologies. Together, they employ thousands across the state and are pivotal in transitioning toward smarter energy infrastructure.

Read on to discover the top smart grid companies in Illinois.

Top 21 Smart Grid Companies in Illinois

1. S&C Electric Company

• Website: sandc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 75%, Canada 18%, Mexico 3%, Other 4%
• Founded year: 1911
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: s%26c-electric-company

S&C Electric Company, based in Chicago, Illinois, has been a significant player in the electric utility sector since its founding in 1911. The company manufactures and provides a wide range of electric utility solutions, focusing on power distribution and automation products. S&C serves utilities and various industries, offering systems designed to improve power reliability and reduce outages. Their product lineup includes advanced automation solutions, switching equipment, and microgrid control systems, all aimed at enhancing the resilience of electrical systems. S&C's commitment to innovation is evident in their development of technologies that support the transition to smarter, more efficient grids. With a workforce of over 2,500 employees, the company operates primarily in the United States, with a notable presence in Canada and Mexico.

2. ELM Companies

• Website: elmllc.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Peoria, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: April 2020
• Founded year: 1998
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: elmcompanies

ELM Companies, founded in 1998 and based in Peoria, Illinois, is a utility management and energy solutions provider. The company specializes in utility locating, energy storage, and solar energy technologies, catering to utility companies, businesses, and municipalities. ELM aims to enhance energy efficiency and reliability through comprehensive services that streamline utility management and improve infrastructure performance. With a workforce of around 199 employees, ELM operates across the United States, providing precision locating services and advanced digital technology for mapping subsurface structures. Their MicroGrid division focuses on battery energy storage systems, while ELM Solar offers innovative solar energy solutions that promise increased power generation. ELM's commitment to integrating sophisticated utility and energy technologies positions them as a relevant player in the smart grid industry.

3. ComEd

• Website: comed.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Grant), $14.6M, August 2024
• Founded year: 1907
• Headcount: 5001-10000
• LinkedIn: comed

Commonwealth Edison (ComEd) is an electric utility company based in Chicago, Illinois, providing electric service to over 3.8 million customers across Northern Illinois. Founded in 1907, ComEd has a long history of delivering reliable electricity while also focusing on energy efficiency and customer service. The company offers various services, including billing options, outage response, and energy-saving programs. Notably, ComEd has implemented the Hourly Pricing program, which allows customers to pay for electricity based on hourly market prices, encouraging them to shift their energy usage to off-peak times. This initiative not only helps customers save on their bills but also contributes to a more efficient energy grid. ComEd is also involved in promoting clean energy solutions and has received funding to support its initiatives, including a recent grant of $14.6 million in August 2024. Through these efforts, ComEd aims to empower its customers and communities while advancing the transition to a cleaner energy future.

4. EN Engineering

• Website: enengineering.com
• Ownership type: Private Equity
• Headquarters: Warrenville, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Latest funding: July 2019
• Founded year: 2002
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: en-engineering

EN Engineering, part of the ENTRUST Solutions Group, is an engineering firm based in Warrenville, Illinois, founded in 2002. With a workforce of approximately 1,800 employees, the company specializes in consulting, data solutions, and automation services tailored for utilities, power delivery, and telecommunications. Their clientele includes various utilities and industrial operators who depend on EN Engineering's expertise to enhance operational efficiency and ensure compliance with industry standards. The firm operates across multiple sectors, including gas utilities, power generation, and communications, and has recently expanded its focus to include renewable energy solutions. Notably, EN Engineering has undertaken significant projects aimed at improving smart grid reliability and efficiency, showcasing their commitment to advancing smart grid technologies.

5. G&W Electric Co.

• Website: gwelectric.com
• Ownership type: Family Owned
• Headquarters: Bolingbrook, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 63%, Canada 15%, Italy 10%, Other 12%
• Founded year: 1905
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: g%26w-electric-co-

G&W Electric Co., founded in 1905 and based in Bolingbrook, Illinois, is a family-owned manufacturer of electrical equipment and solutions. The company specializes in products such as switchgear, distribution reclosers, and power grid automation systems. G&W Electric serves a variety of sectors, including commercial, industrial, and utility customers, providing innovative solutions designed to enhance the reliability and efficiency of power grids. Their product offerings include high accuracy sensors and current limiting system protection, which are essential for modernizing electrical infrastructure. G&W Electric is also involved in microgrid solutions, showcasing their adaptability to emerging trends in energy management and distribution. With a workforce of over 800 employees, the company has a significant presence in North America and Europe, reflecting its commitment to meeting the evolving needs of the electrical industry.

6. Professional Meters, Inc.

• Website: prometers.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Morris, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1999
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: professional-meters-inc.

Professional Meters, Inc. (PMI), founded in 1999 and based in Morris, Illinois, specializes in automated metering solutions and services tailored for utilities and municipalities. The company has established itself as a significant player in the automated meter reading industry, having successfully installed over two million AMR/AMI equipped meters across the United States. PMI provides comprehensive services that include the installation of mobile, fixed, and mesh network systems, as well as data management services that ensure accurate and efficient meter readings. Their proprietary Installation Tracking System (PMI-ITS) is designed to manage and track large-scale meter change-out programs, facilitating seamless data transfer to utility billing systems. PMI's commitment to customer satisfaction and its ability to adapt to the unique needs of each utility further solidify its position in the smart grid sector.

7. Communications Supply Corporation (WESCO)

• Website: gocsc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Carol Stream, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 1972
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: communications-supply-corporation

Communications Supply Corporation (WESCO), founded in 1972 and based in Carol Stream, Illinois, is a private electrical supply company that specializes in providing a broad range of products and services across various sectors. With a workforce of approximately 221 employees, WESCO serves industries such as construction, utilities, and manufacturing. Their product portfolio includes automation solutions, electrical distribution equipment, and safety products. Notably, WESCO is involved in grid services, transmission, and distribution solutions, which are critical for the operation of smart grids. The company also emphasizes energy management and renewable energy solutions, including battery storage and electric vehicle infrastructure, reflecting their commitment to supporting the evolving energy landscape. WESCO's tailored solutions aim to enhance operational efficiency and safety for their clients, making them a significant player in the smart grid sector.

8. ComAp Americas

• Website: comapllc.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Roscoe, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2006
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: comap-llc

ComAp Americas, based in Roscoe, Illinois, is a private technology firm founded in 2006. The company specializes in energy control solutions, providing a variety of products designed to enhance power generation and energy management. Their offerings include controllers for microgrids, battery energy storage systems, and various power generation applications. ComAp's solutions are utilized by clients in the energy sector to improve efficiency and facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. They also provide services such as training and cybersecurity, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity and performance of energy systems. With a global presence and a focus on sustainable energy practices, ComAp Americas plays a significant role in advancing smart energy management solutions.

9. GlidePath Power Solutions

• Website: glidepath.net
• Ownership type: Venture Capital
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Seed, February 2014
• Founded year: 2013
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: glidepathpower

GlidePath Power Solutions, based in Chicago, Illinois, is an energy storage company that specializes in advanced energy systems and battery storage solutions. Founded in 2013, the company has developed a robust portfolio of renewable energy projects, focusing on enhancing the reliability of the energy grid and managing energy demands. GlidePath has been instrumental in the development of some of the first battery storage projects in Illinois, providing essential services such as frequency regulation. Their projects, including the Byrd Ranch Storage and the Jake and Elwood storage projects, highlight their expertise in navigating the complexities of energy storage development, financing, and operations. GlidePath is committed to accelerating the transition to a carbon-free electric grid, making them a relevant player in the smart grid sector.

10. PowerWorld Corporation

• Website: powerworld.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Champaign, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: powerworld-corporation

PowerWorld Corporation, founded in 1996 and based in Champaign, Illinois, is a private software company that specializes in electric power systems simulation and training. With a team of around 17 employees, PowerWorld develops a range of products aimed at professionals in the electric power industry. Their flagship product, the PowerWorld Simulator, allows users to simulate high voltage power system operations over various time frames, facilitating effective analysis and decision-making. Additionally, the Retriever product enhances real-time data visualization, which is essential for operators managing complex power systems. PowerWorld's clientele includes organizations involved in transmission planning and operations, power markets, and renewable energy integration. The company also offers training services to ensure users can effectively utilize their software, further solidifying their position in the industry.

11. Utility Design Services

• Website: uds.donco.co
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Edwardsville, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Founded year: 2007
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: utilitydesign

Utility Design Services, known as Utilitra, is a private utility and technology solutions provider based in Edwardsville, Illinois. Founded in 2007, the company specializes in design, construction, and IT services tailored for utilities, businesses, and municipalities. Utilitra's mission is to enhance infrastructure and operational efficiency through a collaborative approach, integrating various specialties to meet client needs. Their service offerings include professional electrical and natural gas design, surveying, and civil engineering, alongside construction services like hydro excavation and underground utility construction. Notably, Utilitra is also involved in technology solutions, providing managed IT services, security and surveillance systems, and electric vehicle charging stations. Their commitment to smart cities and metering solutions reflects their engagement with modern utility challenges, positioning them as a relevant player in the evolving utility landscape.

12. SAI Advanced Power Solutions, INC.

• Website: sai-aps.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Franklin Park, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: $2.9M, December 2013
• Founded year: 1907
• Headcount: 201-500
• LinkedIn: switchboard-apparatus-inc

SAI Advanced Power Solutions, INC., founded in 1907, is a power solutions provider based in Franklin Park, Illinois. The company specializes in innovative power distribution technologies and custom engineering services, catering to various sectors including government and healthcare. SAI's product offerings include advanced power distribution units like Profusion™, which features integrated metering and monitoring capabilities, and EVention™, designed for electric vehicle charging stations. These products reflect SAI's commitment to supporting the transition to smart grid technologies. The company operates with a focus on quality and customer success, ensuring optimal performance of electrical systems. With a workforce of around 142 employees, SAI has maintained a significant presence in the industry, adapting to the evolving needs of power distribution and smart grid integration.

13. Panduit

• Website: panduit.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Tinley Park, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 44%, Mexico 20%, Costa Rica 11%, Other 24%
• Founded year: 1955
• Headcount: 1001-5000
• LinkedIn: panduit

Panduit, founded in 1955 and based in Tinley Park, Illinois, is a private company with a workforce of over 4,300 employees. The company specializes in network infrastructure and industrial electrical wiring solutions, providing a wide array of products such as fiber cabling systems, power distribution units, and network mapping systems. Their clientele primarily consists of businesses in the telecommunications and industrial sectors, which depend on Panduit's innovative solutions to enhance connectivity and ensure electrical safety. Panduit is also actively involved in the renewable energy sector, offering solutions that support the electrification of infrastructure and the integration of electric vehicle charging systems. Their commitment to improving network efficiency and safety positions them as a significant player in the smart grid industry.

14. Mad Dash, Inc.

• Website: maddash.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Crystal Lake, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 1996
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: mad-dash-inc

Mad Dash, Inc., founded in 1996 and based in Crystal Lake, Illinois, is a field services company dedicated to the energy sector. With a workforce of approximately 57 employees, the company has carved out a niche in providing solutions for metering, monitoring, and demand response integration. Their services are tailored to assist utilities and commercial clients in achieving their energy management objectives. Mad Dash offers a comprehensive suite of services, including installation, project management, and technical support, ensuring that energy management technologies are effectively deployed and maintained. The company has developed a reputation for addressing complex field challenges, particularly in areas such as AMI remediation and utility program management. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence positions them as a valuable partner in the energy industry, particularly in the context of smart grid initiatives.

15. Amped I LLC

• Website: ampedi.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2010
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: amped-i-llc

Amped I LLC, founded in 2010 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is an engineering firm that specializes in power infrastructure design and engineering services. The company serves a variety of clients, including power utilities, government entities, and commercial businesses, focusing on transmission and distribution projects. Amped I is notable for its commitment to sustainability, having achieved carbon neutrality in 2022 and actively participating in local community initiatives. Their services include protection and control design, distribution engineering, and substation engineering, with a particular emphasis on integrating new technologies into existing systems. The firm has completed numerous projects that enhance the reliability and efficiency of the power grid, making them a significant player in the energy sector. Additionally, Amped I is a certified Women’s Business Enterprise, which underscores its commitment to diversity and inclusion within the industry.

16. Amps

• Website: amps-db.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Downers Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 89%, India 11%
• Founded year: 2022
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: amps-db

Amps Power Solutions, based in Downers Grove, Illinois, is a private construction and engineering company founded in 2022. With a team of 11-50 employees, Amps specializes in providing energy solutions tailored to various sectors, including manufacturing, multifamily housing, and entertainment. Their services include solar system design, electrical gear procurement, and combined heat and power systems. The company employs proprietary technology and engineering expertise to deliver customized energy models and project proposals. They also focus on optimizing energy sources and integrating systems like microgrids and battery storage, which are essential components of smart grid infrastructure. Amps aims to streamline the construction process while ensuring energy efficiency for their clients, positioning themselves as a valuable partner in the energy sector.

17. CDP Energy

• Website: cdpenergy.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: Mexico 44%, United States (USA) 32%, Nicaragua 12%, Other 12%
• Founded year: 2000
• Headcount: 51-200
• LinkedIn: chicago-digital-power

CDP Energy, also known as Chicago Digital Power, is a private company based in Chicago, Illinois, founded in 2000. The firm specializes in energy solutions, focusing on electrical protection equipment and renewable energy systems. Their product range includes surge protectors, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), solar inverters, and energy storage solutions. CDP Energy serves a variety of customers, from individual consumers to large enterprises, providing innovative products and engineering services aimed at ensuring operational reliability and efficiency. The company has a strong commitment to research and development, continuously working to improve their offerings and adapt to the evolving energy landscape. They have established a significant presence in Latin America, with numerous distributors and service centers, and are dedicated to promoting the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources. Their mission emphasizes security and continuity in energy supply, which is crucial for modern energy management.

18. Hecate Grid

• Website: hecategrid.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Latest funding: Other (Debt), $125.0M, June 2024
• Founded year: 2018
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: hecate-grid

Hecate Grid, based in Chicago, Illinois, is an energy storage company that develops, owns, and operates battery energy storage systems. Founded in 2018, the company focuses on enhancing grid reliability and facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources. Hecate Grid serves electric cooperatives and municipal utilities, providing tailored solutions that improve energy efficiency and reduce operational costs. With a project pipeline exceeding 6 GW of capacity, Hecate Grid is actively involved in the deployment of energy storage projects across multiple states. The company has secured significant funding, including a recent $125 million debt facility, which underscores its growth trajectory and the confidence of investors in its mission to support the energy transition. Hecate Grid's commitment to safety and community engagement further solidifies its role in the energy sector, making it a noteworthy entity in the smart grid industry.

19. Endurant Energy

• Website: endurant.com
• Ownership type: Corporate
• Headquarters: Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 95%, Canada 5%
• Latest funding: May 2021
• Founded year: 2005
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: gi-energy-us

Endurant Energy, based in Chicago, Illinois, is an energy solutions provider that specializes in distributed energy resource systems. Founded in 2005, the company has carved out a niche in the energy sector by offering a range of services designed to help businesses and organizations transition to sustainable energy solutions. Their offerings include Energy-as-a-Service, Engineering, Procurement, and Construction, as well as Operations & Maintenance. Endurant Energy is particularly focused on integrating advanced technologies such as microgrids, energy storage, fuel cells, and solar energy into their projects. Their strategic partnership with LS Power, a significant player in the U.S. power and energy infrastructure market, bolsters their capabilities and positions them for growth in the energy transition. Endurant has been involved in notable projects, including energy storage systems for Con Edison and geothermal energy foundations for major technology companies, showcasing their expertise and commitment to innovative energy solutions.

20. Basler

• Website: basler.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Highland, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 92%, Mexico 8%
• Founded year: 1942
• Headcount: 501-1000
• LinkedIn: basler-electric-company

Basler Electric, founded in 1942 and based in Highland, Illinois, is a private manufacturer specializing in electrical products and services for the power industry. The company provides a range of solutions, including protective relay systems, excitation systems, and custom transformers, which are vital for power management in various sectors such as industrial, marine, and power generation. With a workforce of around 229 employees, Basler is committed to delivering reliable power management solutions that meet the critical needs of their clients. Their products are designed to ensure the safe and efficient control of electric power, making them a significant player in the power industry. Basler's focus on quality and customer support has established them as a trusted name in the market, catering to applications where power reliability is paramount.

21. SubGrid Solutions, LLC

• Website: subgrid.com
• Ownership type: Private
• Headquarters: Glen Ellyn, Illinois, United States (USA)
• Employee distribution: United States (USA) 100%
• Founded year: 2016
• Headcount: 11-50
• LinkedIn: subgrid-solutions-llc

SubGrid Solutions, LLC, founded in 2016 and based in Glen Ellyn, Illinois, is an engineering consulting firm dedicated to the power delivery market. With a team of experienced professionals, SubGrid focuses on providing high-quality engineering solutions that enhance the safety and reliability of power transmission. Their core services include Protection and Control Engineering, Protective Relay Settings, Substation Engineering, Project Development, and Project and Program Management. The firm works closely with electric utilities and organizations in the power sector, ensuring that their engineering designs meet industry standards and client needs. SubGrid's expertise spans various voltage levels, from 500kV to 4kV, and they are involved in projects ranging from greenfield substation builds to complex relay replacement programs. Their commitment to quality and customer-focused service positions them as a valuable player in the evolving power delivery landscape.

Smart Grid Insights: Key Companies in Illinois

Company	Headquarter	Size	Founded	Ownership
S&C Electric Company	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1911	Private
ELM Companies	Peoria, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	1998	Corporate
ComEd	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	5001-10000	1907	Private
EN Engineering	Warrenville, Illinois, United States (USA)	1001-5000	2002	Private Equity
G&W Electric Co.	Bolingbrook, Illinois, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1905	Family Owned
Professional Meters, Inc.	Morris, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1999	Private
Communications Supply Corporation (WESCO)	Carol Stream, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	1972	Private
ComAp Americas	Roscoe, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2006	Private
GlidePath Power Solutions	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2013	Venture Capital
PowerWorld Corporation	Champaign, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	1996	Private
Utility Design Services	Edwardsville, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	2007	Private
SAI Advanced Power Solutions, INC.	Franklin Park, Illinois, United States (USA)	201-500	1907	Private
Panduit	Tinley Park, Illinois, United States (USA)	1001-5000	1955	Private
Mad Dash, Inc.	Crystal Lake, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	1996	Private
Amped I LLC	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2010	Private
Amps	Downers Grove, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2022	Private
CDP Energy	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	51-200	2000	Private
Hecate Grid	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2018	Private
Endurant Energy	Chicago, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2005	Corporate
Basler	Highland, Illinois, United States (USA)	501-1000	1942	Private
SubGrid Solutions, LLC	Glen Ellyn, Illinois, United States (USA)	11-50	2016	Private

Want to Find More Smart Grid Companies?

If you want to find more companies that ...offer advanced solutions like power distribution and energy storage you can do so with Inven. This list was built with Inven and there are hundreds of companies like these globally.

With Inven you'll also get to know the company's:

• Detailed Ownership: Who owns the company? Is it a public or private company? What is the ownership structure?
• Contact data: Who are the founders and CEO's? What are their emails and phone numbers?
• Financials: How do these companies perform financially? What are their revenues and profit margins?

...and a lot more!