Ameren Illinois is constructing a new distribution substation in Marion to enhance energy service reliability, flexibility and load capacity of the company's local electric grid.
The new substation will be called Banterra Drive Substation. The additional electric capacity will support the ongoing industrial growth and the redevelopment of the former Illinois Centre Mall site and its surrounding properties, which encompass the Marion STAR Bond District Project Area 1. The substation is scalable with room for a second 22.4-megawatt transformer if needed in the future.
Grading and foundation work on the site is under way and workers will begin building the facility in early January 2025.
The enhancements to the substation should be completed and in-service by June 2025.