Edison Unveils Ambitious Plan to Bury Power Lines After Devastating LA County Wildfires

In a bold response to one of the most destructive wildfire seasons in U.S. history, Southern California Edison (SCE) has announced a landmark initiative to bury more than 150 miles of damaged power lines in high-risk areas of Los Angeles County, including Malibu and Altadena. This sweeping, multi-year project—estimated to cost up to $925 million—is seen as a critical step in reducing the threat of future wildfires, safeguarding devastated communities, and modernizing California’s electricity grid.

The urgency of SCE’s efforts was ignited by the catastrophic wildfires that swept through LA in January, leaving dozens dead and thousands homeless. The Palisades and Eaton fires, which ravaged Malibu and Altadena, have been described as the most expensive natural disasters in U.S. history. Although the official causes remain under investigation, lawsuits have alleged that SCE’s overhead equipment may have contributed to sparking at least one of the blazes.

"SCE’s initial rebuilding plan will underground electrical distribution infrastructure where practical and make the most of breakthrough technologies to reduce wildfire risk," said Pedro Pizarro, CEO of Edison International. The plan focuses on undergrounding around 130 circuit miles of distribution lines in high-fire-risk neighborhoods—an upgrade that could protect lives and property, and dramatically decrease the likelihood of powerlines triggering future infernos.

For Altadena, about half the city’s power distribution lines would be replaced with underground cables—a landmark transformation. An additional 90 miles are planned for Malibu, with further expansions under review. SCE’s CEO Steven Powell highlighted the company’s commitment to “build back a resilient, reliable grid for our customers.”

This action was facilitated by California Governor Gavin Newsom’s emergency order in March, which suspended certain environmental regulations to fast-track critical utility work. Eliminating these red-tape barriers, the order enabled utilities to promptly develop and submit plans to rebuild and enhance damaged infrastructure, prioritizing public safety and restoration.

The scope and speed of SCE’s proposal were shaped by extensive consultations—over 50 community meetings—and close collaboration with local leaders. The company is balancing speed with sensitivity, as the rebuilding timeline depends on local reconstruction efforts and government permitting. While some neighborhoods may see improvements within months, the complete conversion will span several years.

Cost remains a primary concern for residents, with the price tag approaching $1 billion. SCE has pledged to explore state, federal, and philanthropic partnerships to defray the cost and is seeking options to avoid rate hikes for customers. “We really want to find a way to avoid that being a cost that these communities have to pick up,” stressed Pizarro, noting that even individual home connections can cost up to $10,000 per property.

Importantly, the effort targets distribution lines, not larger transmission lines, which are harder and more expensive to underground due to electrical and geographical challenges. SCE is also committed to hardening and insulating any overhead lines that remain, further reducing fire risks.

The significance of this initiative cannot be overstated. In an era of intensifying wildfires fueled by climate change, SCE’s plan may serve as a blueprint for utility companies nationwide. As communities like Malibu and Altadena rise from the ashes, the question remains: Can such ambitious infrastructure projects become the new standard for wildfire resilience?

What do you think about the plan to underground power lines to fight wildfires? Share your perspectives in the comments and join the conversation.

• Altadena
• Malibu
• Southern California Edison