As El Paso grows, so does the demand for reliable energy to power homes, businesses and communities. Meeting this challenge requires careful planning and significant investments in infrastructure. El Paso Electric (EPE) is addressing these needs with strategic upgrades to its energy delivery systems and the addition of new generation technology like Newman Unit 6.

These efforts are designed to enhance reliability today while preparing for future growth, ensuring that the grid remains resilient even under extreme weather conditions.

Newman Unit 6: Supporting a growing region

In 2023, EPE introduced Newman Unit 6, a natural gas generation unit capable of delivering 228 megawatts of power. This addition to the grid plays a vital role in maintaining stability during high-demand periods and compensating for fluctuations in renewable energy sources like solar and wind. Its quick-response capabilities ensure that power supply remains consistent year-round.

Newman Unit 6 is also built with efficiency in mind, conserving approximately 600 million gallons of water annually compared to older systems. By combining reliability with resource conservation, the unit represents a critical step forward in meeting the region’s growing energy needs.

Strengthening service reliability through grid upgrades

Alongside the addition of Newman Unit 6, EPE is undertaking significant upgrades to its 

energy delivery infrastructure. These projects are essential to strengthening the grid’s ability to deliver reliable power to a growing community.

One key initiative is the replacement of aging wooden poles with steel structures engineered to withstand high winds and severe weather, including brush fires. These steel poles, weighing over 20,000 pounds each, ensure the reliability of critical transmission lines, especially during extreme conditions.

EPE has also completed major updates to its 345 kV transmission system, replacing 300 structures across 100 miles of power lines. These high-voltage systems are integral to transporting electricity efficiently over long distances, providing stability and ensuring power reaches homes and businesses throughout the region.

Closer to the city, modernization efforts include upgrading 69 kV and 115 kV lines. These upgrades are essential to support the energy demands of new neighborhoods, growing businesses and emerging industries that demand higher energy use. By reinforcing the grid, EPE is preparing for the region’s continued growth while maintaining the reliability residents and businesses depend on.

Connecting clean energy to El Paso’s grid

As part of its efforts to balance reliability with sustainability, EPE is integrating renewable energy sources into the grid. A prime example is the Felina Solar Facility, currently under construction in Fabens. Once completed, this solar farm will generate 150 megawatts of clean energy, enough to power tens of thousands of homes and businesses.

To connect Felina to the grid, the utility is building miles of transmission lines, ensuring that renewable energy flows seamlessly to customers. These infrastructure upgrades reflect EPE’s broader commitment to a sustainable energy future while maintaining the stability of the grid.

Looking ahead: Powering a bright energy future

EPE’s investments in Newman Unit 6, grid-wide upgrades and renewable energy integration represent a comprehensive approach to meeting the region’s energy needs. By reinforcing critical infrastructure and preparing for future industries, EPE is ensuring the grid remains reliable, adaptable and ready for growth.

For residents and businesses across the region, these efforts mean fewer outages, greater energy security and access to clean, sustainable power. As El Paso continues to evolve, EPE is committed to powering the moments that matter — today and tomorrow.

To learn more about EPE’s initiatives, visit epelectric.com.