HPU Launches Substation Modernization Projects

Hibbing Public Utilities (HPU) is excited to break ground on the Substation Modernization Projects. These projects will invest ~$5.8 million building three new substations in Hibbing to replace old equipment in HPU’s electrical system. Work will begin soon at the Ansley and 1^st Ave Project Sites. These projects will bring Hibbing’s electrical infrastructure out of the 1960’s and into the modern age to immediately improve electrical reliability.

What is a Substation?

A substation is a crucial part of Hibbing’s Electrical Grid that helps manage the flow of electricity from the Hibbing Renewable Energy Center (HPU’s power plant) to your homes and businesses. The primary purpose of a substation is to convert high-voltage electricity from the power plant into a lower voltage level that is safe for consumer use.

Issues with Existing Substations:

Substation equipment usually only lasts 40-50 years. The substations to be replaced were installed in the 1960’s and have been serving the community for 60+ years. The simple fact is that this equipment is old and more likely to fail. In the last five years, equipment failure due to age can be attributed to several significant outages. These outages are dangerous now, but would only become worse if unaddressed. This is why HPU must act to replace our outdated substations.

Project Outcome:

HPU’s Substation Modernization Projects will go beyond a 1-for-1 replacement of existing equipment. The project will utilize modern technology and design to improve the reliability of our electrical service. HPU will be installing modern Padmount Transformers. The new equipment will drastically reduce the number of outages caused by equipment failure. Padmount Transformers are also designed to be installed underground to protect important equipment from wildlife interference and hazardous weather. Protection from both internal equipment failure and external interferences, will provide Hibbing with a more reliable electrical service.