Malibu begins underground power line project to reduce wildfire risk
(UI) — Southern California Edison (SCE) has begun construction on the Merlin Circuit Undergrounding Project in Malibu, part of the utility's broader effort to reduce wildfire risk and improve electric reliability in high fire-threat areas.
The project will relocate overhead power lines underground along Corral Canyon Road, Seabreeze Drive, Vista Mar Drive and nearby neighborhoods. Construction is expected to continue through the end of 2027.
According to SCE, undergrounding the circuit is intended to reduce wildfire ignition risks by protecting electrical infrastructure from high winds, falling trees and other hazards that can damage overhead lines. The project is also expected to improve service reliability and reduce the need for Public Safety Power Shutoffs during periods of elevated wildfire risk.
Company officials said the Malibu project is part of a larger plan to place at least 212 miles of overhead distribution lines underground in high-risk wildfire areas by the end of 2028.
Local officials joined SCE representatives at a groundbreaking ceremony on June 24 to mark the start of construction. Utility officials said the undergrounding work is designed to strengthen the electric system while improving emergency communications and power reliability for Malibu residents during wildfire events.
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