Governor Gregg Abbott has announced $8.8 million in Texas Energy Fund (TxEF) grants is to be distributed for the purpose of strengthening electric reliability in the South Plains region.
The grants will support several projects by the Lamb County Electric Cooperative, Inc, who service Hockley and Lamb counties.
“Texas is the national leader in energy because we prioritize electrical projects that directly impact the homes and businesses of Texans,” said Abbott. “These grants will help ensure communities across the South Plains have the reliable energy they need today and in the future.”
Projects focus on transmission line replacement, increasing transformer capacity, and modernizing aging infrastructure.
Two projects will replace 13.5 miles of aging transmission line, which will improve the continuity of service and reduce required maintenance, as well as reduce the risk of wildfires.
In addition, the grants will allow for the installation of a new transformer at the Opdyke Substation. This will increase the facility’s capacity to distribute electricity, as well as modernize control systems, allowing for faster response times in emergencies and quicker restoration times after an emergency.
According to a press release by the governor’s office, the projects will benefit nearly 2,400 co-op members.
“Texas is the national leader in energy because we prioritize electrical projects that directly impact the homes and businesses of Texans,” said Abbott. “These grants will help ensure communities across the South Plains have the reliable energy they need today and in the future.”