The fed grant of $405 million will enhance the electrical transmission and distribution system across Long Island and the Rockaways.
“We’re investing in a reliable, resilient clean energy grid that can withstand the impacts of extreme weather events,” Governor Hochul said. “Thanks to the Biden administration and our partners in Congress, this funding will make crucial upgrades to improve our electrical grid and help keep the lights on for New Yorkers.”
The increased funding will enable LIPA to strengthen 166 overhead circuits covering approximately 1,376 miles of its power distribution network, following the damage caused by Tropical Storm Isaias, which left 650,000 customers without power in August 2020. LIPA will storm harden an additional 166 overhead three-phase primary circuits.
IBEW 1049 Business Manager Pat Guidice said, “This important funding is vital to the continued strengthening of Long Island’s electrical infrastructure, making it more robust against extreme weather we are experiencing. In addition, this will create more jobs for trained professionals so vital for the operation of the Grid while boosting our local economy. IBEW Local 1049 is proud to contribute with skilled union labor, ensuring the work is done safely and efficiently. We thank our leaders for securing this vital investment.”
There will be an increase of approximately 100 electrical line workers over the project’s four-year construction. These additional union workers are critical to power restoration during major weather events. Approximately 11,000 utility poles will be replaced with stronger, more resilient poles capable of withstanding hurricane-force winds up to 135 mph. In addition, primary wire will be upgraded to more durable and resilient alternatives.
Long Island Federation of Labor AFL-CIO President John R. Durso said, “Long Island is an island in the Atlantic Ocean on the front lines of climate change. This federal funding is significant for Long Island. Enhancing our electric grid’s reliability and resiliency is vital to delivering stable power and good-paying union jobs for a better and brighter future. We would also like to thank Governor Hochul, Majority Leader Schumer, and Senator Gillibrand for their leadership and support in securing these funds.”
