Puerto Rico’s largest transformer arrives at Sabana Llana substation to strengthen the electric grid with modern, reliable capacity that will enhance system stability 

November 6, 2025 – SAN JUAN, PR – LUMA, the company responsible for operating Puerto Rico’s electric transmission and distribution system, announced today the arrival of the largest and highest-capacity transformer in the island’s history. The transformer, to be installed at the Sabana Llana Transmission Center in Carolina, will directly impact over 200,000 customers and indirectly benefit more than 700,000 by reinforcing the grid and providing greater stability to prevent large-scale outages. 

This project, fully funded by federal resources, marks an unprecedented milestone in the modernization of Puerto Rico’s energy infrastructure. It enhances the electric system’s resilience against large-scale cascading events, offering peace of mind to hundreds of thousands of families. The investment of approximately $21 million covers the purchase, design, construction, and transportation of the transformer. It is part of the broader reconstruction of the electric system in collaboration with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), aimed at improving grid stability for customers from Manatí to the island municipalities of Vieques and Culebra. 

“This is one of the most important steps in LUMA’s ongoing efforts to stabilize Puerto Rico’s electric grid,” said Pedro Meléndez, Chief Officer of Capital Programs and Grid Transformation. He noted that since 2021, the company has launched over 500 projects to enhance grid resilience, with nearly 200 projects completed or nearing completion. 

Sabana Llana, one of Puerto Rico’s most critical substations, will receive the transformer following a complex logistical transport operation from the San Juan port to the substation in Carolina. 

“After months of coordination and close collaboration with the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTOP), as well as the municipalities of San Juan and Carolina, this effort is becoming a reality. The Sabana Llana transformer is one of many that will continue arriving in the coming months. Nearly 50 modern units have begun arriving and will continue to arrive throughout 2026, nearly three years after the order was placed. This marks another key step in LUMA’s mission to improve the stability of the island’s transmission and distribution system.” 

Over the past four years, LUMA has ordered more than 80 transformers, with six already installed in 2025 as part of its grid modernization plan. Manufacturing and delivering these units is a complex process that can take between two and four years, depending on the country of origin, design specifications, required components, and technical details. This specialized logistics effort reflects the scale of commitment to Puerto Rico’s energy transformation and the need for long-term planning to ensure a more robust and reliable system. 

Meléndez acknowledged the challenges involved in preparing for the transformer’s transport and emphasized the significant benefits it will bring once fully installed and operational at Sabana Llana in the first quarter of 2026. 

“This transformer stands approximately 14 feet tall, comparable in size to a two-story house, and weighs around 250 tons, similar to the weight of a passenger airplane. It represents a significant logistical challenge. Its transport from the San Juan Port to the Sabana Llana Transmission Center will require a carefully coordinated operation led by the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTOP),” stated Meléndez. 

The transportation and movement of the transformer may impact roadways; therefore, citizens are encouraged to plan ahead and consider alternative routes during this process. 

Meanwhile, the Secretary of the Department of Transportation and Public Works (DTOP), Engineer Edwin González Montalvo, outlined the collaborative efforts between the agency and LUMA to provide information on alternate routes and strategies to minimize traffic congestion. 

The transformer’s relocation will take several days and involve temporary closures of frequently traveled routes in the metropolitan area, including sections of Roosevelt, Kennedy, and Piñero Avenues, as well as the José Celso Barbosa Expressway (PR-53). DTOP has reviewed and approved the transport plan and route to minimize traffic impact and ensure compliance with all necessary safety measures. 

“At DTOP, we have worked closely with LUMA to ensure that this transport is carried out safely and with minimal disruption to traffic. These improvements to the electrical infrastructure also require road coordination, and our priority is to help drivers plan ahead and move efficiently during this operation. We appreciate everyone’s understanding and reaffirm our commitment to maintaining road safety and supporting projects that contribute to a more reliable electric system for Puerto Rico,” said Eng. Edwin González Montalvo, Secretary of the Department of Transportation and Public Works. 

Due to the transformer’s large size and weight, temporary modifications will be required at three points along the route. LUMA has been working closely with civil engineers, technical and industry experts, and relevant government agencies during this stage of the process. The three construction points include: 

• PR-165 Roundabout (Guaynabo): Partial demolition and reconstruction of the roundabout near San Patricio Plaza and the Metro Office industrial park. 
• Roosevelt Avenue (San Juan): Installation of the largest portable folding bridge in North America over the existing bridge in front of the Puerto Rico Police Headquarters in Puerto Nuevo, to support the combined weight of 452 tons from the transformer and trailer. 
• Piñero Avenue (San Juan): Demolition of median barriers will be required to accommodate the transformer. 

“Our commitment to Puerto Rico is firm and unwavering. In the face of bureaucratic challenges and funding limitations, we have worked tirelessly to advance critical projects that strengthen the electric system. We have spared no effort because we know our people deserve a stable, reliable, and resilient service.” 

About LUMA 

LUMA is a Puerto Rican company that, since June 1, 2021, has operated and managed the transmission and distribution system of electric power in Puerto Rico. LUMA is driven by the mission to transform the transmission and distribution system, providing all Puerto Ricans with a reliable, resilient, clean, and affordable electric grid they deserve. As a customer-focused company, LUMA’s workforce of over 4,500 employees is committed to delivering an exceptional customer service experience to its 1.5 million customers.