Committee to Discuss Proposed Updates to PWP’s Electric Service Requirement

The Municipal Services Committee will discuss a proposal to amend Pasadena Water and Power’s (PWP) electric service requirements for transformer and switchgear screening for multi-family and commercial zones.

The meeting will be held virtually at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, October 12.
According to a staff report, the proposal seeks to improve aesthetics and ease accessibility to pad-mounted transformers at multi-family residential and commercial zones.
PWP proposes to extend the screening requirements for single family residential areas to multi-family areas.

Current screening for single family residential units must be done with landscape elements. It must be at least 4 feet high and must fully cover the transformer from the view of the street and sidewalk.

The department is recommending the same requirements for multi-family areas. It also added a requirement which provides that “screening shall not be installed near driveways or intersections that may cause visibility obstructions per city standards.”

The department also recommended that for commercial areas, screening of transformers and outdoor switchgears shall be required only if the transformer is located within the code required front setback area of the property.

Transformers located in the rear of the property or facing alleyways will not require screening, according to the recommendation.

The department said solid materials may be used for commercial screening provided they allow access, ventilation and proper working clearances.