The Energy Resources Center (ERC) is a multifaceted, interdisciplinary, energy research organization with over thirty years experience. The ERC is involved in projects covering almost every aspect of the energy endustry in the United States. Our staff bring to every project a collective set of expertise that spans all market sectors, and includes in-depth knowledge of conservation, power generation, professional education, bulk power procurement, technological evaluation and economic benefit analysis. With such breadth and depth of knowledge and experience, the ERC is uniquely well-positioned to assist a broad range of clients with their energy objectives.

The ERC’s core capabilities span the following four main areas:

Bioenergy and Climate The effort of this research cluster focuses on resource assessments for renewable energy and biofuels processes as well as greenhouse gas life cycle and climate impact analyses of emissions related to different renewable energy and biofuels production pathways.

Distributed Generation
The Distributed Generation Group promotes the viability and proliferation of combined heat and power technologies that generate at least a portion of a building or facility's electricity requirements on-site.

Energy Efficiency
The Energy Efficiency Group focuses on solving energy problems in the Industrial, Commercial and Residential markets. Using energy audits, computer modeling and on-site consultation and evaluation, the group identifies options for improved efficiency.

Utilities Management

ERC's Utilities Management Group provides in-house utility data management and bill verification services and/or IT tools designed to help our clients develop strategies for energy cost avoidance and savings. Our customer-specific databases, user interface forms, and standard/custom reports are easy and convenient portals to access current and historical utility usage information. This information can be utilized to manage supply risks and rates, helping our clients to better function in Illinois' competitive de-regulated energy market. The ERC is currently working closely with the Illinois Central Management Services Agency in their efforts to control utility costs in all state owned facilities.