Grant County PUD, a public utility district in north central Washington state, has proposed a long-term strategy to replace aging high-voltage transformers in its power delivery network, aiming to improve system reliability and avoid costly emergency replacements.

During a recent meeting, Kasey Grant, Manager of Asset Management Strategy and Planning, presented the plan to Grant PUD commissioners. The proposal calls for replacing two transformers annually, addressing a system that includes 97 units from 18 manufacturers -- some nearing 80 years in service.

Seven of the utility's transformers are older than 50 years, and 14 more have passed the 40-year mark, edging toward the typical 50-year lifespan expected in the region. The aging infrastructure, coupled with rising transformer costs -- which have nearly doubled over the past five years -- and delivery times now exceeding 120 weeks, have prompted this proactive approach.

By scheduling steady replacements, Grant PUD aims to avoid the risk of unplanned outages and reduce financial strain from emergency purchases, while continuing to offer stable rates and reliable service.