EWEB 2025 Wildfire Mitigation and Grid Resiliency Projects

planned

The Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB) is implementing wildfire risk mitigation and electric system resilience improvements through operational changes, equipment upgrades, and grant-funded projects. Key initiatives include enabling Wildfire Safety Settings in high-risk zones, using AI and satellite tools for vegetation management, installing a new weather station, upgrading equipment to reduce spark risks, and supporting customers reliant on power for medical devices. EWEB has three active grant projects: a $1 million Fuels Reduction Grant in partnership with local fire agencies, a $1.2 million Oregon Department of Energy Grid Resiliency Grant for rebuilding nine miles of distribution lines in Cedar Flats, and a FEMA Hazard Mitigation Grant to rebuild and modernize lines near Amazon Headwaters Trail in South Eugene, with construction expected to start in late summer 2025.