NV Energy To Continue Work in the Lake Tahoe Basin to Protect Communities, Reduce Wildfire Risk

NV Energy is working to protect the community, equipment, and the environment from increased risk of wildfires and other natural disasters.  

“This work is crucial in improving the safety and resiliency of our power system that serves the Lake Tahoe Basin, while at the same time improving forest health and being respectful of the sensitive ecosystem and environment the Tahoe area has to offer,” said Jesse Murray, vice president of energy delivery and natural disaster protection for NV Energy. 

Work in the Lake Tahoe Basin begins this week and will continue through the end of summer and into fall as NV Energy works to reduce vegetation that poses a wildfire risk along overhead power lines and improve infrastructure to minimize the chance of infrastructure caused wildfires and protect our communities against extreme weather events. The Lake Tahoe Basin is a high priority due to the region's extreme fire risk conditions. 

Work will begin this week in Kingsbury and northeast of Incline Village along State Route 431. While work is underway, residents and visitors can expect occasional delays in the area, including along hiking and mountain biking trail and should prepare accordingly.  

Local fire district crews will begin vegetation treatment and will use mechanical equipment. In limited circumstances, such as steep slopes and sensitive environments, helicopters will be used to remove trees and vegetation.  

“Visitors and residents shouldn’t be surprised to see fire crews, equipment, trucks and, in some cases, helicopters. Throughout the summer months we will be working closely project partners, including local fire crews, who will also be on site to mitigate any risks,” Murray said. 

NV Energy will notify customers and nearby residents directly impacted by projects where power may need to be turned off for short periods of time when work is being done. Impacted residents can expect to receive notifications when work occurs.  

“It’s important that we keep everyone up to date about the work we’re doing, and our team will be communicating with residents directly impacted by any power interruptions,” Murray said.