South Pasadena residents watching regional infrastructure developments may soon see transformative changes just next door in Altadena, because according to a report by PasadenaNOW.com, Southern California Edison (SCE) is set to begin a massive underground electrical project starting in July 2025.
The multiyear effort will underground 63 miles of electrical lines, focusing primarily on areas severely damaged by the Eaton Fire and regions designated as high fire risk zones, SCE officials announced Tuesday. The project aims to enhance community safety, support the rebuilding of homes, and prepare the grid for future clean energy technologies like electric vehicles and heat pumps.
Supporting Fire Recovery and a Clean Energy Future
Initial efforts will target 23 miles of underground lines in 2025, particularly in places where above-ground infrastructure no longer exists. “We want to be ready when people start coming back to rebuild,” said David Fanous, SCE’s Operations Section Chief, during a recent meeting with the Altadena Coalition of Neighborhood Associations.
The infrastructure upgrade includes a transition from 4 kV to 16 kV systems in West Altadena, allowing for greater electrical capacity and grid resiliency as communities increasingly shift toward all-electric homes and technologies.
A Community-First Approach
SCE’s Vice President of Local Public Affairs, Karla Diaz Sayles, emphasized the utility’s collaborative approach: “We are deeply committed to building back Altadena stronger alongside the community.”
To move forward, SCE is seeking property owners’ cooperation through right-of-entry agreements, offering $500 per property during initial coordination. Permanent easements will be negotiated later as the project progresses.
Company representatives also noted that 40 miles of the targeted area lies within high fire risk zones, while 23 miles include territories heavily impacted by the Eaton Fire. SCE is working with Los Angeles County to explore FEMA funding that may help property owners cover service connection costs.
Resources and Regional Impact
Altadena residents can visit SCE’s “one-stop shop” for rebuilding support, where planners and energy advisors are on hand to answer questions.
For South Pasadena residents, this regional initiative serves as a reminder of the importance of fire-resilient infrastructure and proactive planning in the face of increasing wildfire risks across Southern California.
For more information and updates on the project, visit sce.com or the local SCE resource hub.
