In Chicago, where the threat of winter blizzards, summer power surges, and deadly tornadoes can leave tens of thousands of residents without power for many days, a new microgrid is on the cusp of becoming a model for the country.

ComEd, the electric and gas utility company with 10 million customers, has successfully completed final testing of a microgrid integration—a network of solar panels, generators, batteries—that will increase energy security and resilience for residents and businesses on Chicago's South Side.

"The impact of this project will be felt the world over as the industry better understands what is possible in integrating clean energy technologies," said Prof. Amin Khodaei of the University of Denver.