WASHINGTON and IDAHO – Avista Utilities is set to receive an $85 million grant for significant upgrades to the Lolo-Oxbow transmission line. It’s a joint effort with Idaho Power Company. The federal funds will cover about half the total project cost.
The Lolo-Oxbow transmission line, stretching from the Lolo-Oxbow Dam in Oregon to Lewiston, Idaho, is undergoing improvements aimed at wildfire resistance. Josh DiLuciano, Avista’s Vice President of Energy Delivery, highlighted the challenges the line faces.
“This line is in a rugged part of our service territory and it’s hard to access. It’s also exposed to a lot of wildfires,” he said. The company plans to install steel poles and other resilient equipment to ensure the infrastructure withstands potential fires.
The upgrades will also optimize power control and increase capacity, providing enough energy for Spokane on a peak day. DiLuciano described the transmission lines as essential: “Transmission lines are the interstate system of the power grid and Avista is a key part of that in eastern Washington.”
Avista is employing drone technology for this project. These drones will assist in stringing new lines across challenging terrains, marking a first for the company.
The Lolo-Oxbow project is expected to begin in 2026.
Additionally, E Source will benefit from a $77 million grant for grid resilience efforts. This company plans to enhance grid reliability through the deployment of microgrids, providing backup power during natural disasters. The technology will help utilities detect faults in the grid more efficiently.
