Otay Mesa Transmission Line Project
Overview
Our commitment to providing clean, safe and reliable energy means making improvements to our system, including fire hardening electrical equipment to make the system more resilient in the communities we serve. The Otay Mesa Transmission Line (TL) 649 fire-hardening project will enhance the reliability of electrical power in the Tier 2 High-Fire Threat District (HFTD) area. As part of this project, SDG&E will also remove the Otay Lakes Substation, which was constructed in 1957, from service. The fire-hardening project will replace approximately 18 existing wood poles with new steel pole structures. The project will also string approximately 2 miles of new transmission and distribution conductor.
As part of our Community Fire Safety Program, this project includes dependability and protection measures that help improve the resiliency of our electrical system during extreme weather conditions. Electrical service in this area will continue without interruption from another location that has modern equipment, improved safety and reliable transmission and distribution for the area.
Project Benefits
- Decommission Otay Lakes Substation and removal of all infrastructure
- Removal of four wooden poles and all distribution and transmission equipment leading into the substation
- Improved safety and reliability of electric system during extreme weather conditions
- Reduction in potential future maintenance and power outage costs
About the Project
The Otay Lakes substation is located approximately four miles northeast of the Otay Mesa Port of Entry at the United States and Mexico border. The substation was built in 1957 and is being decommissioned due to the TL 649 segment being removed from service for fire hardening. The power lines from this substation have been replaced by newer and more modern equipment. The substation property is in a remote area in San Diego County with dirt access roads near the Richard J. Donovan Correctional Facility and public agency lands.
The project includes the removal of all distribution and transmission equipment leading into the Otay Lakes Substation. The plan includes the removal of all above grade and below grade equipment at the substation property which is approximately one-half acre. SDG&E crews will perform an environmental site restoration plan.
The proposal includes the replacement of approximately 18 existing wood pole structures with fire-hardening new steel pole structures. New electrical lines will replace approximately two miles along various segments of TL 649 in the Tier 2 (HFTD). These types of upgrades and technology enhancements play a major role in limiting the potential risk of utility-related wildfires and mitigating the impacts during a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS).
What to Expect
Traffic delays and temporary lane closures are expected. SDG&E plans to have traffic control measures in place during construction, and our crews will strive to minimize any impacts to you and your neighbors. Work along the route may occur intermittently, and construction activities required in a certain area may not be completed concurrently. There will be multiple construction locations and activities taking place simultaneously, with work hours, traffic control measures and noise restrictions for each area established by local jurisdictions.
Project Schedule and Map
Estimated Start Date: Q3 2024 through Q4 2024
In-Service Date: Q4 2024
See PDF maps below with document titles.
Construction Notifications and Updates (Pending)
Frequently Asked Questions (Pending)
More Information
If you have questions or concerns, please contact SDG&E's toll-free project number at 1-844-765-6388 or visit sdge.com/Otay-Mesa.