In the heart of New York City, a significant shift is underway, one that could redefine the energy landscape of Queens and set a precedent for urban electrification nationwide. Con Edison, the utility giant, has announced a $125 million investment to build a new transmission line, dubbed the Reliable Clean City—Long Island City project. This isn’t just about adding another line to the grid; it’s about future-proofing one of the fastest-growing communities in the state.
The project, connecting the Vernon and Newtown substations in Long Island City, is a direct response to the surging demand for electricity driven by the electrification of buildings and the rapid adoption of electric vehicles (EVs). Without this intervention, the grid’s capacity would struggle to keep up with the neighborhood’s growth, potentially leading to reliability issues. The new line, with a capacity of 200 MW, is set to be operational by the summer of 2026, ensuring that the power keeps flowing as Queens continues to evolve.
Matthew Ketschke, president of Con Edison, underscored the project’s significance, stating, “Our Reliable Clean City—LIC project will increase the capacity of our system, helping us to maintain our world-class reliability throughout fast-growing areas of Queens.” This isn’t just about maintaining the status quo; it’s about enhancing it, ensuring that the grid can support the borough’s vibrant neighborhoods as they continue to thrive.
The impact of this project extends beyond Long Island City. It will also benefit adjacent areas like Sunnyside, Sunnyside Gardens, Woodside, and Hunter’s Point. Moreover, it’s part of a broader strategy by Con Edison to strategically add capacity through three Reliable Clean City transmission lines, with others planned for Brooklyn and Staten Island.
But Con Edison isn’t just about building lines; it’s about building communities. The utility has been proactive in engaging with local stakeholders, from elected officials to community boards, to address concerns and minimize inconvenience. They’ve used a multi-channel approach, including construction signage, customer emails, and flyers, to keep the community informed. This level of transparency and engagement is crucial, especially in densely populated urban areas where construction can significantly impact daily life.
The project also aligns with broader environmental goals. By enhancing the grid’s capacity, it supports the electrification of transportation and buildings, reducing reliance on fossil fuels. This is evident in the closure of an inefficient, fossil fuel power plant in Queens, made possible by another Reliable Clean City transmission line completed in 2023.
The Reliable Clean City—LIC project is a testament to Con Edison’s commitment to maintaining its world-class reliability. The utility’s electric service is already nine times more reliable than other New York State providers and the U.S. average. This project is about ensuring that reliability continues, even as demand surges.
Local leaders have welcomed the investment. Laura Rothrock, president of Long Island City Partnership, noted, “As Long Island City thrives, our energy needs evolve. Con Edison’s infrastructure investment will ensure our community has the power it needs to continue on its exciting path.” Kenneth Adams, president of LaGuardia Community College, echoed this sentiment, stating, “Con Edison is continuing its two-century tradition of providing reliable energy, enabling western Queens to maintain our momentum.”
The Reliable Clean City—LIC project is more than just a transmission line; it’s a blueprint for urban electrification. It’s about anticipating growth, engaging communities, and investing in infrastructure that supports a sustainable future. As other cities grapple with similar challenges, they would do well to watch how this project unfolds. The decisions made in Queens could very well shape the future of urban energy landscapes across the country.
