2 minute read
Electrical Infrastructure Improvements for the Tahoe Keys
By Andrew Gregorich, Liberty Planner
LIBERTY IS DEDICATED to delivering safe, reliable electric service and is continually making advancements to increase service reliability. Regular maintenance, upgrades, and improvements to the electrical system are key to avoiding or reducing potential service interruptions.
System improvement projects occur throughout the Liberty territory year-round. One of these projects is scheduled for the Tahoe Keys community and is expected to begin in August or September. This project focuses on improving resiliency and reliability of your power service as well as improved environmental sustainability.
There are several old “submersible” transformers throughout the Keys that are directly buried in residents’ yards or in the right-of-way near residents. These transformers can be difficult to maintain and repair, which can lead to longer power outages if an issue occurs. Removing these submersible transformers has environmental benefits and complies with the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency’s regulations and guidelines.
Liberty’s project scope includes converting the underground transformers to above-ground pad-mounted transformers and augment/increase secondary service capacity, which will provide the following benefits:
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For more information about how to prepare for a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), visit www.LibertyUtilities.com • Improve the ability to isolate issues so that fewer customers are affected by a power outage should one occur. • Reduce the duration of a power outage via better access to the system (i.e., above ground) and the isolation of any issue needing repair. • Remove the challenges of having underground infrastructure. • Improve overall reliability and resilience of your power service. • Provide for an overall safer system.
Once the work begins, there should be minimal disruption to the community. The work will be performed in the existing right-of-way, affecting a few individual properties and potentially some minor traffic controls for a safe work zone. Work will be performed in the areas of Venice, Garmish, Beach, Marconi, and Lido and is expected to last approximately two months. Directly affected customers will be notified. This project will benefit residents of the Tahoe Keys and is the first project of a multi-year effort to improve and enhance the electrical system in the Tahoe Keys.
