The Los Alamos County Board of Public Utilities convened on June 4, 2025, to discuss critical updates regarding the electrical demand and infrastructure in the region. The meeting focused on analyzing peak demands at local substations and the implications of electrification on the county's power systems.

The session began with a review of peak demand patterns for the White Rock and Los Alamos systems. It was noted that these two systems do not peak simultaneously, which complicates demand forecasting. The discussion highlighted that while the average peak demand was initially estimated at 17 megawatts, this figure is subject to refinement as more data becomes available. The board emphasized the importance of planning for worst-case scenarios, particularly as electrification efforts increase.

A significant point of discussion was the projected increase in power demand, which could potentially quadruple the current capacity requirements. This increase necessitates a thorough evaluation of existing infrastructure, particularly the service conductors that deliver electricity to homes. The board acknowledged that many of these assets are aging and nearing the end of their operational life, indicating a need for substantial upgrades and replacements in the coming years.

The meeting also addressed the technical challenges associated with increased current flow, which requires more robust wiring to prevent overheating and ensure safety. The board discussed the necessity of building new substations and additional distribution feeders to manage the anticipated load effectively. This infrastructure expansion is crucial to accommodate the growing demand while maintaining system reliability.

In conclusion, the board's discussions underscored the urgent need for strategic planning and investment in electrical infrastructure to support future electrification and ensure the county can meet its energy needs sustainably. The board plans to continue refining demand estimates and exploring engineering solutions to enhance the electrical system's capacity.