Indio kicks off energy expansion project with Avenue 42 substation upgrade

INDIO, Calif. (KESQ) - This morning, the City of Indio and the Imperial Irrigation District is hosted a groundbreaking ceremony to commemorate the Avenue 42 substation upgrade project, which will expand the substation. The expansion is the first of four projects planned under the Indio Electric Financing Authority. It's part of an effort to expand the electrical grid's capacity to meet up with the city's growing energy demands.

"We need power. I think people don't realize the extent that power is used in all communities and our public safety environment as well," says Indio Mayor Elaine Holmes.

The Avenue 42 upgrade project costs $12 million and is funded through a surcharge for residents. City officials say the average surcharge is around $11 per household, but depends on residents' electricity usage. The target completion date for the Avenue 42 upgrade project is August 2026.

Once all four substations are complete, officials say it'll power up to 16,000 homes and businesses in Indio.