City not ready to bury power lines

Power lines stretched along FAMU Way. Photo courtesy: Zoe Wells

Tallahassee’s recent weather events have led to increased talks of burying the city’s power lines. However, with the cost of getting it done and government funding limited, is Tallahassee really prepared to take that step?

From tornadoes to unexpected snowfall, the Big Bend is no stranger to intense weather events. 

These weather events almost always result in downed power lines, causing widespread outages across the capital city and creating dangerous conditions for residents.

Talk of putting power lines underground have been a popular topic across the country. After severe weather, the question often arises: Would underground power lines improve safety and disaster response? 

The answer isn’t simple. According to a research article written by Theodore J. Kury, director of energy studies at the University of Florida, burying power lines is an expensive undertaking that could create additional problems. City utilities charge customers for their services, and regulators ensure those prices remain fair. 

Estimating how much a customer should pay for moving power lines  underground in the name of reliability is a difficult question.

In addition, burying power lines may be more of a hassle than it’s worth. Installing underground power lines could cause significant disruptions. Construction alone would take time, and regular maintenance would be required. 

The possibility of flooding is also a major concern.

Tallahassee officials have discussed putting the city’s power lines underground multiple times at City Commission meetings. On Jan. 16, the City Commission held its annual retreat, where the issue was brought up again. Commissioner Jack Porter asked for an update on the matter. City Manager Reese Goad explained that, according to estimates, burying the rest of Tallahassee’s power lines could take up to 50 years and cost several billion dollars.

In Tallahassee, half of the distribution lines are already underground, according to Goad. The city takes advantage of new opportunities to continue building underground but it is also exploring alternative solutions.

“As opposed to undergrounding, our best bet is to strengthen the grid that exists,” Goad told commissioners. “That is bigger poles, stronger wires … making more intelligent distribution automation, all of which serve the overarching goal of improving reliability and shortening restoration times.”

Burying power lines in Tallahassee may sound like a good idea to prevent outages during severe weather, but its high price tag may not be feasible or practical. Digging up roads and maintaining underground lines could also create more problems. That’s why city leaders are considering other solutions. While underground lines may seem like the best fix, the city manager believes improving the current system is a faster and more affordable approach. 

The debate isn’t over, but for now, strengthening the existing grid remains the priority.