Ameren Illinois bolstering electric grid in downtown Bloomington

Ameren Illinois is installing two new 14MVA 34/4kV transformer along with making additional upgrades to its Bloomington Power House substation in downtown Bloomington. This upgrade is part of Ameren’s overall statewide plan to build a more flexible, reliable and resilient grid capable of supporting the delivery of cleaner, greener energy from sources like wind and solar. (Photo courtesy Ameren Illinois)

By WJBC Staff

BLOOMINGTON – Work is underway on substation upgrades that will strengthen the electric grid serving business and residential customers in downtown Bloomington, according to Ameren Illinois.

The electric provider says upgrades to the South Roosevelt Avenue substation will enhance energy reliability through individual power line fault isolation, additional mobile connectivity, and new equipment. In addition, the company plans to build a new control building as well as to retire and remove facilities on the east side of Roosevelt Avenue.

“This upgrade is part of our overall statewide plan to build a more flexible, reliable and resilient grid capable of supporting the delivery of cleaner, greener energy from sources like wind and solar,” said Brian Brackney, Regional Director of Electric Operations, Ameren Illinois. “With these enhancements, Ameren Illinois is taking proactive steps to prepare for the future needs of our electric customers. We’re excited to bring these benefits to our customers in Bloomington.”

Ameren says the enhancements to the substation should be completed and in-service by January 2025.

WJBC News can be reached at [email protected]

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