Puget Sound Energy has begun construction of a new electric substation near the intersection of 356th Street Southeast and Southeast Douglas Street in Snoqualmie.

PSE’s new substation is meant to increase the reliability and capacity of Snoqualmie’s electric system.

“Snoqualmie was the fastest growing city in Washington state between 2000 and 2010, and this upgrade to the electric system continues to meet our customers’ needs,” said Jason Van Nort, PSE manager of local government and community relations.

Van Nort said the last upgrade for Snoqualmie came some 20 years ago. The new station adds capacity for 5,000 homes, with space for additional growth without changing the station footprint.

Construction work is planned for 2011 and 2012. The 2011 work, which is expected to be completed by October, will include clearing and grading the substation site, installing new foundations, and installing underground distribution power cables to connect to the existing electric system. PSE will also extend Southeast Douglas Street to the substation driveway. The work is scheduled Mondays through Fridays from approximately 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Saturday from approximately 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Some activities, however, may take place after 7 p.m. on weekdays, or 6 p.m. on Saturdays.

The substation is expected to be in service by the end of 2012.

For more information, visit PSE.com/King County.