LUMA leads $5 B grid makeover in Puerto Rico
FEMA has committed $5 B to modernization projects, with $1.8 B already in the construction phase.
Image for illustrative purposes
Puerto Rico: LUMA is leading a $5 B overhaul of Puerto Rico’s power grid, with $1.8 B in construction already underway. Backed by FEMA, the projects aim to modernise critical infrastructure and boost reliability.
Key efforts include replacing decades-old transformers, some in use for over 70 years, and updating substations in Bayamón, San Juan, and Ponce. A total of 89 new transformers have been ordered from global manufacturers and are being delivered through 2026.
The Costa Sur substation, a major hub, received new gas-insulated breakers as a safer, more efficient upgrade from obsolete oil-based models. In total, 22 breakers have been replaced across the grid.
LUMA has submitted over 520 projects to FEMA, representing $12 B in federal funds. This includes the Smart Meter Initiative, Community Streetlighting, and a major vegetation clearing effort.
Launching in Mayagüez, Ponce, Caguas, and Arecibo, the vegetation program will clear over 1,000 km (660 mi) of power lines, reducing outages and improving hurricane resilience.
Additionally, 47 of 51 key transmission segments have been inspected and 206 structures have been repaired. Despite challenges like inflation and logistics, LUMA holds weekly coordination meetings to ensure progress on this island-wide transformation.
Source: T&D World
#FEMA#grid upgrade#LUMA#Puerto Rico#reliability#substations#transformers#transmission lines