Coachella Valley Is Powering Up For Growth

INDIO, CA — Officials broke ground Tuesday on an upgrade to the Avenue 42 Substation in Indio, the latest project meant to enhance power reliability and meet the city's growing energy demands.

The $12 million project will add a third transformer bank to increase capacity, with construction expected to be finished by late August. It is one of four projects planned under the Indio Electric Financing Authority, in partnership with Imperial Irrigation District.

"The district has been focused with the city of Indio and regional partners for the growth and success of the Coachella Valley," IID Board Vice President JB Hamby said in a statement.

The three other projects are the Avenue 40 substation, Carreon substation expansion and Northgate/Avenue 43 project. Colelctively, the projects are estimated to power approximately 16,000 single-family homes in the city.

Two other major infrastructure projects were announced last year, including a $39 million power substation in Thousand Palms and a $23 million Avenue 58 substation in La Quinta.

"With IID as our strategic partner in the development of the Indio Electric Financing Authority, we are taking a proactive approach to power planning that helps keep Indio moving forward," Indio Mayor Elaine Holmes said. "The Avenue 42 substation upgrade is a key investment in Indio's future, supporting existing residents while ensuring the reliable power capacity and redundancy needed for new development and continued economic growth.