New Orleans Water Utility Set for Major Transformation in 2025
Entergy finished a dedicated substation in 2023, and now SWBNO is building its own power complex at the Carrollton water plant.
Image for illustration purposes.
The Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (SWBNO) is on the brink of a significant transformation, with 2025 marking a pivotal year for the city’s water infrastructure. This change comes after years of challenges, including unreliable power supply and ageing equipment.
At the heart of this transformation is the construction of a new Entergy substation at the SWBNO’s Carrollton Water Plant. The new substation represents a shift from SWBNO’s century-old practice of generating its own power. By connecting to Entergy’s grid, the utility expects to reduce its carbon footprint by 80%, aligning with New Orleans’ climate action goals. This transition will also allow SWBNO to retire much of its outdated and inefficient power generation equipment.
Alongside the power upgrade, SWBNO is implementing other crucial improvements:
1. Installation of modern frequency changers to replace century-old units.
2. Deployment of five Turbine Generators for backup power during emergencies.
3. Implementation of a new SCADA system for enhanced monitoring and control.
These upgrades are designed to improve the reliability of New Orleans’ water and drainage systems, particularly during hurricane seasons and heavy rainfall events. The modernisation effort also aims to address longstanding issues with water main breaks and sewage backups.
The project, costing approximately $200 million, is funded through a combination of federal grants, state capital outlay funds, and SWBNO’s own resources. While rate increases are not currently planned, future adjustments may be necessary to support ongoing improvements.
SWBNO’s Executive Director, Ghassan Korban, emphasises that these changes will bring the utility into the 21st century, improving service reliability and operational efficiency. The transformation is expected to have a positive impact on the daily lives of New Orleans residents, potentially attracting new businesses and supporting economic growth.
As 2025 approaches, New Orleans stands on the cusp of a new era for its water infrastructure, promising more reliable services and a greener future for the city.
Source: msn
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