In 2024 and 2025 alone, MLGW invested more than $65M in substation reliability upgrades and expanded system capacity to accommodate future growth. From Boxtown to Bartlett, Alcy-Ball to Arlington, and Downtown to Orange Mound, these improvements are making a difference for our customers who deserve improved reliability. Today, MLGW cut the ribbon on another investment in that portfolio of improvements, the new electric substation #83 in Collierville. Substation 83 will enhance the reliability and resilience for residents and businesses throughout southeast Shelby County, and provide new capacity necessary to accommodate residential, commercial, and industrial growth in this fast-developing part of our service area.

“Substation 83 represents not only a major milestone in our march toward improved reliability and resilience for Collierville, but also adds the capacity needed to serve this community’s projected growth for the next 15-20 years,” said MLGW CEO Doug McGowen. Increasing demand for electric power from current and future customers is something that every electric utility is facing. MLGW has been aggressive in budgeting and building infrastructure that will meet the needs of customers across Shelby County, making our system more reliable today, and ready for the demands of tomorrow.

Mayor Maureen Fraser captured the importance of the event “As Mayor, and as a parent who raised kids here, I’m always thinking about what we’re leaving for the next generation. Today reminds me that our community doesn’t just respond to challenges—but anticipates them. Today’s ribbon cutting is about power, yes—but more than that, it’s about progress.”

Memphis Light, Gas and Water is the largest three-service public power utility in the nation, serving the residents of Memphis and Shelby County, Tennessee since 1939. MLGW consistently provides customers with rates that are amongst the lowest in the nation and stewards a water supply from artesian wells that is minimally treated. Actively engaged in promoting the prosperity of Memphis and Shelby County, MLGW supports the seven local chambers in its service area and makes doing business with local, minority- and women-owned business a priority. Deeply rooted in the community, its employees generously donate time and money in support of bettering the Greater Memphis area.