NYSEG Begins Reliability Improvements at Fourth Street Substation
Substation benefits more than 3,400 customers in community
ITHACA, N.Y. — June 25, 2026 — New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) has begun upgrades to the Fourth Street Substation in Ithaca. This project aims to increase energy capacity and will help ensure that the power stays on for more than 3,400 customers in the community.
Grid investments like the upgrades at the Fourth Street Substation play a critical role in maintaining a safe, reliable, and resilient energy system for customers. As communities grow and energy needs evolve, modernizing infrastructure helps ensure the grid can support increased demand, integrate new technologies, and reduce the frequency and duration of outages. These investments are also key to enabling future electrification and supporting economic development, while strengthening the system’s ability to withstand increasingly severe weather and other external challenges.
“The upgrades to the Fourth Street Substation will have a real benefit for our customers in Ithaca,” said Marc Geaumont, president of NYSEG. “Substation upgrades are essential for energy reliability in the communities we serve and help ensure that homes, businesses, and other facilities have power when they need it most. This project is part of ongoing investments being made to upgrade multiple substations throughout the Ithaca community.”
Upgrades include the installation of two new transformers to improve capacity, new switching equipment, and a modern control building that will assist with safety and communications systems. NYSEG is improving 22 miles of distribution lines, which will help the substation deliver electricity more reliably to those who utilize it. Construction began in June and is expected to be completed in 2028.
This project is just one part of the Company’s broader plan to modernize the grid across New York. With growing demand, more extreme weather, and increased electrification, NYSEG is focused on making continued, targeted investments in the energy system. These upgrades replace older equipment with newer, more reliable technology to improve service, reduce outages, and help ensure communities across the state are better prepared for severe weather and evolving energy needs.
Media Contact:
Michael Baggerman