CARLSBAD, N.M. (April 4, 2022) – Xcel Energy construction crews will be active along Old Cavern Highway starting this week upgrading an existing electric distribution line and a short segment of high-voltage transmission line.

The line projects are part of an ongoing grid improvement project launched in 2019 that is improving the reliability and capacity of the power lines and substations serving the city.

“This work is vital in keeping up with the strong economic growth of the city, which has also increased the demand for electricity,” said James Lackey, Xcel Energy manager for Community and Economic Development. “The public will notice our crews at work along Old Cavern Highway, so we want to encourage everyone to slow down and watch out for everyone’s safety.”

The work taking place includes what is known as a reconductor project, which involves the replacement of existing conductor, or wire, with a higher-gauge wire to increase a line’s capacity to move power. Crews will be working along the west side of Old Cavern Highway between Hopi Road and Chapman Road. Additionally, crews will be working on transmission line towers at the intersection of Old Cavern and Chapman later in the week. 

The work along Old Cavern Highway will continue through late May.