New $1.85M transformer installed to boost electric reliability for 11,000 Lakewood customers

The Illuminating Co. has installed its first of two new $1.85 million transformers at the Lakewood Substation to improve electric reliability for nearly 11,000 customers in Lakewood and West Cleveland. The transformers will enhance grid stability by reducing outages, shortening restoration times, and increasing backup capacity. This upgrade is part of broader efforts including substation and neighborhood equipment improvements, smart meter installations, and proactive tree trimming, which have already reduced outage durations significantly. The second transformer will be installed later this summer, with both expected to be energized by year-end, further strengthening the local electric system.