Constructing Our Future: 2025 Highlights and Future Projects
2025 has been another busy year with construction projects, pole changes, new services, and rebuilds. The construction projects were aimed at modernizing and strengthening our electric distribution system. From replacing aging overhead infrastructure to expanding our underground network, our team has worked diligently to enhance reliability, improve safety, and prepare our system for future growth. These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to delivering dependable service while investing in long-term system reliability.
Over the past year, we successfully completed several critical infrastructure upgrades that have greatly improved the reliability and efficiency of our electric distribution system. These efforts included replacing five miles of three-phase overhead line, installing thirteen miles of underground distribution, and converting two miles of single-phase overhead line to underground. Each project was carefully planned and executed to improve system performance, reduce maintenance, and support long-term service reliability for our members.
Project #1 - This project, located south of Miller, involved replacing three miles of three-phase overhead lines with underground cables. It will improve reliability and support future growth. This was a Federal Emergency Management Administration mitigation project where Dakota Energy was awarded $198,540 upon completion.
Project #2 - This project was located west of Miller. It involved converting eight miles of single-phase underground cable to three-phase underground for commercial loadings and will serve as a backbone feeder in the Miller, Ree Heights, and Highmore areas.
Project #3 - This project involved replacing five and one-half miles of underground infrastructure installed in the 1980s and is located south of St. Lawrence. This upgrade will enhance service reliability and increase loading capacity, ensuring our infrastructure meets future demands.
Project #4 - Located south of Wessington, the project is scheduled for completion this fall. It involves the conversion of two miles of three-phase overhead to underground. By improving reliability and expanding capacity, we’re investing in a stronger, more resilient system that supports our community’s growth for years to come.
Project #5 - This project, located south of Huron, is scheduled for completion this fall. It involves converting two miles of single-phase overhead lines to underground, which will improve service reliability. These improvements are not just about today, they are about building a smarter, more reliable system that’s ready for tomorrow’s challenges.