The Guam Power Authority (GPA) is set to receive $1.7 million as part of its multi-year investment to improve the electric grid, prevent customer outages, and reduce the impact of extreme weather events on electrical infrastructure. Enhancing energy infrastructure to make it more resilient against the effects of climate change while supporting the integration of renewable energy is a key element of GPA’s Clean Energy Master Plan.

This grant is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy Preventing Outages and Enhancing the Resilience of the Electrical Grid Grants program, established under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA). The grant program aims to strengthen and modernize the U.S. power grid against wildfires, extreme weather, and other natural disasters. Projects eligible under this grant include under-grounding of electrical equipment, hardening of power lines and other utility infrastructure, and adaptive protection technologies.

At present, nearly 25% of Guam’s power customers receive their power through underground lines—allowing GPA to operate a portion of the grid during typhoons. As part of its resiliency plan, GPA will utilize these funds to under-ground key transmission lines supplying Guam Waterworks Authority (GWA) water and wastewater facilities.

“GPA General Manager John M. Benavente, P.E said, Typhoon Mawar has shown us the critical importance of our electric grid, and we know firsthand that a successful recovery is hinged upon timely power restoration. This investment will both strengthen our grid against typhoons and allow it to handle our island’s growing energy demands —ensuring the people of Guam have access to power that meets their needs.”

Guam is slated to receive approximately $864,000 in funding every year for five (5) years through this program. The $1.7 million award accounts for the first two (2) years of funding.