Will County Gazette

Park Forest officials are urging residents to apply for ComEd’s energy relief program, as funding for the initiative is expected to run out soon.

ComEd launched its $10 million Customer Hardship Relief Fund earlier this month, offering one-time bill credits of up to $500 for eligible households and $1,000 for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Since the program opened, according to the Chicago Tribune, nearly 60,000 applications have been submitted, putting the fund on track to be depleted much sooner than originally anticipated.

Park Forest's Sustainability Coordinator Carrie Malfeo is encouraging residents to act quickly.

“Families in Park Forest should not wait to apply,” Malfeo said. “If you think you might qualify, submit your application today. Funding is limited, and once it’s gone, it’s gone.”

The program is available to ComEd residential customers whose household income is at or below 300 percent of the federal poverty level.

As the summer heat drives up energy usage, Malfeo also provided energy-saving tips to help residents reduce their electric bills. These tips include setting thermostats to 78 degrees when at home and 82 degrees when away, using ceiling fans, sealing drafts around doors and windows, and scheduling major appliance use during off-peak hours.

Malfeo added that applying for the relief fund should be just the first step in a broader effort to reduce household energy costs. She is urging residents to take advantage of ComEd’s free Home Energy Assessment for single-family homes which includes free installation of energy-saving products such as LED bulbs, programmable thermostats, advanced power strips and faucet aerators.

“These small adjustments can add up to significant savings over time,” Malfeo noted. “But in the short term this relief program can really assist residents who are feeling the pinch of high utility costs.”

According to ComEd residential customers may see their bills rise by 10 to 15 percent this summer primarily due to increases in wholesale energy prices. This could result in an additional $10 to $15 per month for many households.

Residents interested in applying for assistance can do so by clicking here. Applicants must provide proof of income and approved bill credits should appear within two billing cycles. The application process will remain open until all funds are distributed.

The relief fund is designed to bridge the gap until January 2026 when ComEd plans to launch a new Low-Income Discount Program aimed at providing more permanent support to income-qualified customers.

“This is a real opportunity to get help when it’s needed most,” Malfeo said. “We want to ensure that Park Forest residents don’t miss out.”