Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is wrapping up the first of four phases of a major capacity project that will modernize its electric system in Los Altos – paving the way, officials said, to more affordable, reliable power and room to grow as the state electrifies.
The overall project will convert 3,944 customer services from the existing 4,160-volt distribution system to a reinforced 12,000-volt system. Upgrading the distribution system to a higher voltage will nearly triple capacity to support future building and transportation electrification.
The final work of phase one is scheduled for this week, when crews will remove pole butts and transfer communication lines along the following streets: El Monte Court, El Monte Avenue, N. El Monte Avenue, Higgins Avenue, Otis Way, Mills Avenue, Benvenue Avenue, Camellia Way, Hawthorne Court, Hawthrone Avenue, Lerida Avenue, San Luis Avenue, Paco Drive, Giralda Drive, Stardust Lane, Springer Terrace, Amador Avenue and S. Clark Avenue.
Since the start of phase one in March 2024, PG&E crews have upgraded more than 130 overhead transformers and poles, replaced 5,000 feet of overhead powerlines and installed nearly 650 feet of underground cables.
Phase two will start in October 2025 and will include additional pole and transformer replacements, the installation of underground cables and advanced switches that will speed up power restoration. Before that can move forward, a separate project needs to be completed to lay the groundwork.
Due to the size and complex nature of these projects, some customers may experience more than one planned power outage through the duration of the work. “No Parking” signs will be placed along impacted streets at least 24 hours before work begins. Residents and businesses should prepare for minor delays when crews are working nearby. Most work will take place Monday through Friday during business hours.
All four phases are expected to wrap up by the end of 2026 – at which point system capacity would have nearly tripled. Capacity and reliability projects, like this system upgrade in Los Altos, are funded by PG&E’s General Rate Case (GRC).
