ComEd Goats Bring Safety, Reliability and Fun to Customers' Energy

Rhea-AI Summary

ComEd has launched its second year of a targeted grazing program utilizing over 200 kiko goats to manage vegetation along power lines in Illinois. This eco-friendly initiative aims to reduce the risk of power outages by clearing hard-to-reach areas without machinery. The goats, known for their efficiency, can clear one acre per week compared to a human crew. Alongside this, ComEd has introduced a social media campaign, 'Goatternship', to engage the community and educate them about the program. ComEd serves approximately 4 million customers across northern Illinois.

CHICAGO, June 23, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- From endearing bleats and "bahs" to their eco-friendly way of life and nose-to-the-ground work ethic, goats are ideal partners for ComEd. For a second year, more than 200 goats are taking their place among the ComEd ranks for a targeted grazing program, serving as a safer and more sustainable way to clear vegetation in hard-to-reach terrain and helping to ensure reliable power. 

"ComEd is passionate about any opportunity to create innovative, sustainable solutions for our communities," said Michelle Blaise, senior vice president of technical services at ComEd. "And when we can combine our work with a way to bring joy and education into Illinois homes, it's even better. We're excited to continue this pioneering goat grazing program and share it with people everywhere."

In late June and early July, the kiko goats are grazing under ComEd powerlines in downstate Pekin, Ill. Kiko goats are a hearty breed known for their big appetites. The goats are on loan to ComEd from the goat grazing company Goats on the Go. On average, a goat can clear one acre of land a week—equivalent to what a team of people can do with machinery in the same amount of time.

"Overgrown vegetation can lead to power outages, especially in storms," Blaise said. "Using goats to clear foliage and brush is an eco-friendly, efficient and safe alternative to our crews when it comes to clearing vegetation in difficult landscapes. Plus, they're full of personality."

To highlight the unique program, which was the first of its kind by an energy company in the Midwest, ComEd has created a lighthearted and educational social media campaign, "Goatternship," across its social media channels through July 14.

The "Goatternship" campaign chronicles the experiences of this summer workforce, sharing the backstories of individual goats — with names like "Selena Goatmez" and "Great Goatsby" — and playing off features of the traditional internship experience, including orientation, on-the-job training and performance reviews. 

To learn more about the goats and track their progress, check out ComEd's Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About ComEd
Commonwealth Edison Company (ComEd) is a unit of Chicago-based Exelon Corporation (NASDAQ: EXC), the nation's leading competitive energy provider, with approximately 10 million customers. ComEd provides service to approximately 4 million customers across northern Illinois, or 70 percent of the state's population. For more information visit ComEd.com, and connect with the company on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Media Contact:
Kappie Kopp
Kappie.kopp@mslgroup.com 
312.937.1343

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SOURCE ComEd

FAQ

What is the purpose of ComEd's goat grazing program?

The goat grazing program is aimed at managing vegetation along power lines to reduce the risk of power outages in difficult terrain.

How many goats are involved in ComEd's grazing program?

More than 200 kiko goats are participating in ComEd's targeted grazing program.

Where is the goat grazing program taking place?

The program is currently taking place in Pekin, Illinois.

What is the 'Goatternship' campaign?

The 'Goatternship' campaign is a social media initiative by ComEd to share the experiences of the goats and educate the community about the program.

How effective are the goats in clearing land?

On average, each goat can clear one acre of land per week, offering an efficient alternative to machinery.

Who provides the goats for ComEd's program?

The goats are on loan from the goat grazing company Goats on the Go.