(Modernization project too important)....The Imperial Irrigation District says they are determined to move forward.

The project deals with long term plans to strengthen the reliability of its electric service through a series of major projects aimed at bolstering grid reliability to meet growing energy demands. The district says they will specifically continue to work to deploy an Advanced Distribution Management System on schedule. It is a major project for the IID that, through modernization and automation, will enhance operations and reliability, providing direct service benefits to customers. The project will continue despite the recent announcement by the Department of Energy that grant funds will no longer be available. The District says the project is too important to stop. The IID will commit $18.3 million in funds over four years for the $36.7 million project. The District will use IID funds to cover the project costs.