Work is Part of Preventive and Corrective Maintenance Plan to Improve Electric Service Reliability in the Northern Region
Manatí, Puerto Rico – December 18, 2025 – The main transformer at the Manatí TC substation, which has been in operation for nearly 50 years, is undergoing repairs and maintenance that will help stabilize service for nearly 100,000 customers in Puerto Rico’s northern region.
This transmission center, which interconnects 115 kV and 38 kV transmission lines and distribution feeders, serves as a key link for northern Puerto Rico.
“This transformer, originally installed in 1976, is scheduled for replacement. However, due to insufficient funding, we are now forced to carry out major repairs that have never been done before. Although its last maintenance was in 2019, this week we are addressing an oil leak and other conditions that severely affect its performance to reduce the likelihood of service interruptions,” explained Hendzon Martínez, Director of Substations.
Repair and maintenance work includes:
- Replacement of one 115 kV breaker and repair of a 38 kV breaker associated with the transformer to restore the operational reliability of the transformer’s protection system
- Processing and filtering transformer oil to remove accumulated impurities, helping protect internal components and extend the transformer’s lifespan. This procedure ensures the equipment operates safely and efficiently
- Maintenance of the transformer’s voltage regulator (Load Tap Changer or LTC), a critical component that regulates customer voltage and minimizes fluctuations. This equipment requires maintenance every four years to ensure optimal performance and support continuous transformer operation
- Correction of oil leaks in the radiators and other components
- Application of protective paint to prevent future corrosion
All work is being carried out in compliance with current local and federal environmental regulations, with the goal of preventing contamination and protecting natural resources during the repair and maintenance process. To complete these tasks without interrupting service, a portable substation was installed, allowing customers to remain energized throughout the duration of the work.
“These efforts are part of the Preventive and Corrective Maintenance Plan for substations, which LUMA continues to implement across the island to address the accumulated deterioration of the electrical system. That’s why adequate funding for these initiatives is essential to ensure reliable and safe service,” emphasized Martínez, who has over 22 years of experience in Puerto Rico’s transmission and distribution system.
About LUMA LUMA is a Puerto Rican company that, since June 1, 2021, operates and manages the electric power transmission and distribution system in Puerto Rico. LUMA is a company driven by a mission to transform the electrical transmission and distribution system to provide all Puerto Ricans with the reliable, resilient, cleaner, and affordable electrical service they deserve. As a customer-centric company, LUMA’s entire workforce of over 4,300 employees is focused on safely delivering an exceptional customer service experience to its nearly 1.5 million customers.
