CPUC Releases Draft EIR for SCE’s Ivanpah–Control Project

On March 31, 2026, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) released the Draft Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for Southern California Edison’s Ivanpah–Control Project, prepared with support from Aspen Environmental Group. The Draft EIR evaluates the potential environmental impacts of proposed reliability upgrades to existing 115 kV subtransmission lines spanning Inyo, Kern, and San Bernardino counties.

Originally constructed in the early 1900s to deliver hydropower to a growing Southern California population, these legacy transmission lines are now proposed to be modernized to improve system reliability and safety. The project includes rebuilding approximately 175 miles of transmission lines, from the Control Substation west of Bishop to the Kramer Substation at Kramer Junction, and upgrading structures along approximately 88 miles of two segments between the Kramer and Coolwater substations east of Barstow.

Aspen played a key role in supporting the preparation of the Draft EIR, helping to evaluate environmental impacts and inform decision-making for this critical infrastructure project.

The public review period for the Draft EIR is open through May 15, 2026. The document is available on the CPUC’s project website.