ComEd is challenging college students and recent alumni to propose a new product, service, or technology that helps low-income customers use smart meter information to manage their electric bill and save money as part of the ComEd Student Innovation Challenge.

ComEd is currently in the process of installing four million smart meters in homes and businesses across northern Illinois as part of a major smart grid investment to modernize the electric system and provide customers with more reliable service and greater control over their electricity usage. Although ComEd offers a range of financial assistance programs and support energy-assistance programs that help those in need, they are always on the lookout for additional ways to help their customers.

Students and recent alumni have until June 15, 2014 to register for this challenge, and August 31, 2014 to submit an entry. ComEd will select the top five submissions to compete before a panel of industry experts for a share of $10,000 in cash. Prizes include an Apple iPod®, iTunes® gift card, Starbucks® gift card or a Student Innovation Challenge commemorative t-shirt.

Official rules and contest information can be found at ComEd.com/StudentInnovation.

For questions, call Shirlean Williams, CMC Director, Employer Relations at 312.567.6482 or email swilli26@iit.edu.