SCE Confirms Plans to Underground 150 Miles of Power Lines in Fire Areas

Southern California Edison, which has been targeted by lawsuits alleging its above-ground power lines sparked the Eaton Fire, will underground more than 150 miles of electrical lines as it rebuilds its infrastructure in the Eaton and Palisades burn areas, the utility announced Friday.

SCE plans to underground 130 miles of distribution lines in high risk fire areas in the Eaton and Palisades burn scars, along with 23 miles outside of high risk areas in Altadena. Another 19 miles of lines in the Altadena area are being evaluated for possible undergrounding.

“Just three months have passed since the devastating wildfires, and all of us at Edison continue to keep those affected in our thoughts. We’re working closely with state and county leaders and the communities of Altadena and Malibu to rebuild wildfire-impacted areas stronger than ever,” Pedro J. Pizarro, president and CEO of Edison International, SCE’s parent company, said in a statement. “SCE’s rebuilding plan will underground electrical distribution infrastructure where feasible and make the most of breakthrough technologies to reduce wildfire risk.”

Critics often advocate for undergrounding power equipment for increased safety, but the efforts are often cost-prohibitive. According to SCE, its rebuilding plan for the fire areas — including the undergrounding of lines — is estimated to cost between $860 million to $925 million.

The plans were outlined in a letter sent by the utility to Gov. Gavin Newsom.

“Governor Newsom’s leadership during this tragedy has been instrumental, contributing to an environment where SCE could design and permit projects in a matter of weeks instead of what would usually take years,” Pizarro said.

SCE is already facing multiple lawsuits alleging that one of its above- ground power lines triggered the Eaton Fire amid severe winds. The utility has acknowledged the possibility that its equipment may have been involved, although investigations into the cause are continuing.

In addition to undergrounding power lines, SCE said its rebuilding plan will also include upgraded infrastructure to accommodate greater electrical demand while increasing reliability.

“SCE will build back a resilient, reliable grid for our customers,” Steven Powell, president and CEO of SCE, said in a statement. “We are increasing electrical capacity in fire-impacted communities and exploring advanced technologies, such as battery backup for critical care customers and smart panels, to better serve our customers. We will continue to engage community members to make sure their views remain a critical part of the rebuild. I am proud to work alongside SCE colleagues as we support our communities and build a resilient, clean and affordable energy future.”

Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger hailed the announcement.

“The commitment to undergrounding power lines, enhancing infrastructure resilience and supporting critical care customers demonstrates a strong alignment with the safety needs of Altadena and surrounding communities,” Barger said in a statement. “Continued collaboration is key as we work together to rebuild stronger and safer.”