Power Lines to Be Buried in Altadena and Malibu

News Summary

In response to recent wildfires, Southern California Edison has announced a significant investment of up to $925 million to underground power lines in Altadena and Malibu. The plan aims to enhance safety in high fire risk areas by burying approximately 153 circuit miles of power lines. The project has involved extensive community engagement and aims to streamline approvals for quicker implementation. Additionally, SCE is committed to adopting modern technologies to meet increasing energy needs and ultimately plans to underground around 600 miles of power lines by 2028, greatly ensuring fire safety for residents.

Exciting Changes for Altadena and Malibu: Power Lines Going Underground

In the wake of devastating wildfires that swept through Altadena and Malibu this January, Southern California Edison (SCE) is taking meaningful steps to enhance the safety and reliability of the electrical grid in these vulnerable areas. The company has just unveiled a groundbreaking plan to invest a whopping $860 million to $925 million to underground power lines and rebuild its electrical distribution infrastructure.

A Big Shift to Underground Power Lines

This initiative isn’t just about snazzy new infrastructure; it’s a serious game changer for wildfire at-risk communities. SCE aims to bury around 153 circuit miles of power lines—130 of which will be situated in high fire risk areas like burn scars, while 23 circuit miles will touch communities in Altadena located outside these zones. Plus, there’s an extra 19 circuit miles currently under evaluation to ensure no stone is left unturned. That’s a lot of wires digging deep into the earth to keep our neighborhoods safer!

Community Involved Every Step of the Way

What’s really noteworthy is how SCE has involved the community in shaping this project. With over 50 community engagement sessions already held, locals have had the chance to voice their opinions and experiences, helping to refine the rebuilding plan. This level of outreach demonstrates SCE’s commitment to transparency and collaboration, ensuring the project aligns well with the needs of residents.

Streamlined Approvals for Swift Action

California Governor Gavin Newsom has jumped into action too, facilitating quicker permitting processes by pausing certain environmental laws, thus accelerating efforts to get this project off the ground. Officials firmly believe that undergrounding power lines will dramatically cut down wildfire risks, giving peace of mind to residents who’ve witnessed firsthand the destructive power of fire.

Future-Proofing Our Electric Needs

This rebuilding effort isn’t just about fire safety; it’s also about adapting to our growing energy needs. As households rely more on electricity, upgrades are essential to keep the lights on for everyone. SCE has expressed its commitment to implement modern technologies, including battery backups specifically for critical care customers, ensuring dependent communities are looked after when it matters most.

Looking Long-Term

If you think this is just a one-off project, think again! This plan is part of a broader vision. SCE is eyeing to underground around 600 miles of power lines by 2028. While some lines will be buried, others will be “hardened” with fire-resistant coverings to further minimize risks. With the costs typically running between $3 million and $5 million per mile for undergrounding, this project signifies a serious commitment to ramping up fire safety measures across California’s wildfire-prone zones.

What to Expect and When

When will this all happen? Well, that depends! While some areas are slated for completion in just a few months, others could take years to wrap up. The timeline is flexible, ensuring that it meets community needs as well as the necessary permitting processes are adhered to. One thing is certain: there’s no rush to compromise on quality safety measures.

Funding Help in Sight

As the project moves forward, SCE is making efforts to shoulder the financial burden that might come from such a large-scale commitment. The utility company is actively pursuing state, federal, and philanthropic funding to help offset costs for customers, ensuring that safety doesn’t come at an impossible price for residents.

A Growing Trend Toward Safety

This endeavor is just another part of a growing trend toward undergrounding lines across California’s fire-prone regions. After all, nobody wants to experience wildfires like those we’ve seen in the past. SCE’s commitment to rebuilding stronger and more resilient infrastructure reflects community requests for improved fire safety measures, ensuring that Altadena and Malibu emerge from the ashes prepared for a safer future.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

• The New York Times: LA Fires and Southern California Edison
• LAist: Burying Power Lines After the LA Fires
• Business Wire: Southern California Edison Rebuilding Plan
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildfires in California
• Pasadena Now: SCE’s Rebuild Plan for Altadena and Malibu