IID invests $23.5 million in Coachella Valley electric reliability

IMPERIAL, Calif. (KESQ) — The Imperial Irrigation District (IID) is investing approximately $23.5 million to replace aging transformers in the Coachella Valley, helping strengthen electric reliability, reduce the risk of equipment-related outages and prepare for growing energy demands.

The projects will replace transformers that have served customers for more than 30 years at Monroe Substation, North La Quinta Substation and the Coachella Switching Station. The work includes replacements at Monroe Substation Banks 1 and 2, North La Quinta Substation Bank 1 and Coachella Switching Station Bank 1.

“This is exactly the kind of proactive work that supports reliable service for our customers,” said IID Board Chairwoman Karin Eugenio. “By replacing aging transformers before they become a larger issue, IID is investing in the infrastructure our communities depend on.”

Engineering, procurement and construction will take place over multiple years because of long equipment lead times. The projects are expected to be placed into service between 2028 and 2029.

The investment is part of IID’s Powering Our Community Together initiative, which focuses on modernizing infrastructure and strengthening reliable public power service across the utility’s service area.

“These investments may not always be visible to customers, but they are critical to keeping the electric system strong,” Eugenio said.

IID says it will continue investing in infrastructure to address aging equipment, improve reliability and meet the long-term needs of customers in the Imperial and Coachella valleys.