The Peaking Division consists of a number of intermediate and peaking fossil power plants, located in southeastern Pennsylvania, Massachusetts and Illinois. These units are used as needed for peak demand periods and load balancing.
Southeast Chicago Energy Project was built as a joint effort between Exelon and PERC Power Generation, a unit of Peoples Energy Corporation, and was completed in 2002. Exelon now has 100% ownership of the plant.
Southeast Chicago Energy Project is a Level-1 Blackstart Facility—meaning it can be restarted without outside power. In the event of a major power system failure, Southeast Chicago Energy Project will be used to re-energize the electric system and bring other regional power plants back online.
One of the first new gas-fired facilities sited within the city of Chicago, it was hailed as one of the cleanest, most modern and efficient power plants in the United States. The 8-unit facility provides much needed peak generation to the city of Chicago during periods of high electric demand in the summer and winter months. Each unit at Southeast Chicago is rated at 44 MW and runs on natural gas.
Emergency Planning
All Exelon facilities employ sophisticated emergency response plans to protect public health and safety. These plans are reviewed and approved by state governments and regulatory agencies. The emergency planning includes coordination with local counties, municipalities and school districts.
Supporting the Local Economy
The Peaking Division has about 91 Exelon employees. The division’s annual payroll is about $8 million.