The Village’s water and electric utilities are operated as a single department, with the Water and Electric Department Director supervising both utilities. Although operationally unified, the Water and Electric Departments are operated as separate financial entities, with distinct enterprise funds within the Village’s financial records and budget.
Unique among many municipalities, Winnetka generates electric power and services all local residents and businesses. Electricity is carried from the Electric Power Plant via underground cables to load distribution centers throughout the Village. From the ends of these underground cables, overhead and underground wires the provide electricity directly to users. Today, Winnetka’s power and energy requirements are ensured pursuant to contracts between the Village and the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency (IMEA).
Both the Water and Electric plants are staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to handle any service emergencies.