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LUMA improves energy reliability for 100,000 customers in the north 

The LUMA team revitalized the Manatí substation transformer, a key point of the system. 

Manatí, PR – March 19, 2026 – LUMA completed critical maintenance and repairs on the main transformer at the Manatí TC (Transmission Center) substation, a piece of equipment with nearly five decades of continuous operation and essential for the stability of the electrical system that serves close to 100,000 customers in the northern region, as part of the Preventive and Corrective Maintenance Plan for substations. 

The Manatí TC substation is a strategic point where major transmission lines converge, along with several substations and distribution feeders that energize communities, industries, and businesses in the northern part of the island. The transformer, installed in 1976, had exhibited conditions that—if not addressed immediately—could have increased the likelihood of service interruptions and compromised part of the country’s electrical system. 

“For three months we worked on fully refurbishing this transformer, performing repairs that had never before been completed on this equipment. Nearly thirty oil leaks at different points were corrected. This job required careful planning and constant coordination without compromising the country’s electrical system,” explained engineer Hendzon Martínez, LUMA’s Director of Substations, who has over 22 years of experience in the electrical system. 

The work carried out included correcting oil leaks, replacing a 115 kV breaker and repairing another 38 kV breaker, processing and filtering the transformer oil, maintaining the voltage regulator (Load Tap Changer or LTC)—a key component to keeping voltage stable for customers—and applying protective paint to prevent future corrosion.

These tasks were carried out in close coordination with municipal entities in the area to ensure the work was performed safely, with minimal interruptions, and aligned with the needs of the communities served. 

These improvements are part of an ongoing plan to modernize and strengthen the electrical infrastructure with the goal of reducing outages, increasing reliability, and preparing the system for future investments and the replacement of critical equipment. 

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 4,000 employees is focused on safely delivering an exceptional customer service experience to its nearly 1.5 million customers.