Pasadena, Calif., upgrades 30 underground electrical vaults to boost grid reliability

PASADENA, Calif. (UI) — Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) has resumed work on a series of underground electrical vault upgrades across the city, part of a long-term effort to improve grid reliability and prepare for a carbon-free energy future.

(Image source: Pasadena Water and Power)

The project will upgrade 30 underground electrical vaults spanning about 4.5 miles of city streets. Construction will take place overnight, from 9 p.m. to noon the following day, to minimize disruptions for residents and businesses. No service interruptions to power or water are expected.

“This work is part of our ongoing commitment to strengthen Pasadena’s electrical infrastructure and support the integration of renewable energy resources,” PWP said in a statement. “These improvements will help advance the City’s goal of achieving 100% carbon-free energy by 2030.”

The work will continue intermittently through November 2025, pause during December, and resume in January 2026, with full completion expected by June 2026.

All activity will occur within the public right-of-way at vault sites throughout the city. During construction, PWP will use the Glenarm Power Plant to meet energy demand during off-peak hours, though no work will occur at the plant itself.

The vault upgrades are part of Pasadena’s broader infrastructure initiative to enhance system resilience and reduce strain during high-demand periods.

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