Decatur

The following are just a few local infrastructure projects that have been completed or are in progress throughout the Decatur region to help improve reliability and ensure that our power is there when you need it:

Enhanced Reliability

• Upgraded a transformer at Baltimore Avenue substation to allow for more capacity.
• Doubling the capacity of a circuit tie to utilize the ability to transfer load automatically between circuits during an outage.
• Updates are being made to the Main Street substation with a $3.5 million overhaul. Upgrades include adding new circuits which feature SCADA, a program that lets us know what is happening inside the substation and what we need to do to restore power in case of an outage.
• Added a transformer to the Oreana substation at Cundiff Road and Illinois Route 4 just north of Decatur, which will improve reliability and add capacity for the Illiopolis, Argenta, Oreana and Monticello communities. That’s the energy equivalent of expanding a two-lane highway to four lanes.

Advanced Technology

• Added additional advanced communication technology in several substations throughout Decatur that provides real-time views into the substation’s operations.
• Added 30 smart switching devices to the electric system in Decatur since 2010. These automated and remotely controllable switching devices can sense the condition of the electric system and determine appropriate switching actions to reduce the number of customers affected by an outage.
• Added advanced communication technology that provides real-time views into the substation’s operations throughout Decatur.

Enhanced Natural Gas Delivery System

• Opened a new Gas Control Center in Decatur. The approximately 12,100 sq. ft. facility provides real-time monitoring of Ameren Illinois’ natural gas delivery system.
• Replaced a 1,400-foot section of 10 inch steel natural gas transmission pipeline that stretches from Medial Drive to the north frontage road of IL 105, just south of the Sangamon River/Lake Decatur in Decatur, in order to strengthen the integrity and reliability of the natural gas system feeding the Decatur area.

Ameren Illinois is doing more than just enhancing technology in Decatur. Learn how our employees are getting involved and making a difference in your community.