Power
Southern University reallocates funds for campus power grid repairs
Southern University has reallocated $1.5 million to address campus power outages following recent grid failures.
Key points
- Southern University reallocated $1.5 million in deferred maintenance funds for emergency repairs.
- A temporary switchgear has been installed while permanent equipment is on order.
- The institution has launched a 14-week campuswide electrical study.
Southern University's Board of Supervisors met to address recurring campus power outages and outline a timeline for permanent electrical repairs, according to WBRZ reporting.
What happened
During a planned outage, work crews installed a temporary switchgear to restore electrical flow. This unit will remain operational until permanent replacement equipment arrives in approximately 10 months. To finance the emergency intervention, the university reallocated $1.5 million from Act 751 deferred maintenance funds. The capital will fund engineering and replacement designs for failed switches and transformers.
In addition to the temporary fix, the university initiated a 14-week campuswide electrical study. The assessment incorporates field verification, equipment nameplate capture, and infrared thermography testing.
What comes next
Representatives from Entergy Louisiana attended the board meeting to review progress. Seth Schilling, manager of regional customer service at Entergy, stated that the utility aims to be a strong community and utility partner throughout the process, as reported by WBRZ. University officials also acknowledged contractors M&S and Ellis Electric for their swift response in identifying grid failures during previous outages.
Original reporting
This article draws on the following reports. Read them in full on the publishers’ sites.
Context from CEII
Grids decide whether generation becomes power that homes and businesses can rely on. Generation mix, transmission and distribution losses, and tariffs together shape reliability and the case for investment.
91.9% of people worldwide had electricity in 2024Countries in this story
Written by the CEII Desk, the Centre’s automated newsroom, from the reporting credited above and CEII’s own data. Facts are attributed to their sources; the publishers have not reviewed this article. Spotted an error? Tell our editors.
