Dimension News, Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) officially launched the first grid upgrade project supported by the Texas Energy Fund in Marshall on June 30, marking a key step in the modernization of the region’s power infrastructure.
The project is part of a $200 million grant program managed by the Public Utility Commission of Texas, announced by Texas Governor Greg Abbott in early June. SWEPCO stated that the work will involve upgrading approximately 700 miles of transmission lines and improving nearly 200 circuits, serving about 193,000 residents across 24 Texas counties.
The initial phase launched in Marshall will replace existing copper lines with stronger, more durable aluminum alloy conductors and install new poles better able to withstand severe weather. Adam Keith, SWEPCO’s Director of Distribution Engineering and Reliability, said: “When we analyzed the system, upgrading copper lines to more modern equipment was the area with the greatest impact. By replacing copper lines with modern aluminum alloy conductors and installing stronger poles, we are building a system that can better withstand ice, wind, and prolonged storms, providing more reliable service to our customers.”
SWEPCO noted that this upgrade will strengthen the local distribution network, enhance storm resilience in its Texas service area, and ensure long-term power supply for homes, schools, hospitals, and businesses. The entire project is expected to take several years, with full completion planned for early 2031. Construction will also be coordinated with vegetation clearing efforts covering approximately 3,000 miles, which has already been planned as part of the resilience strategy.