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Effingham leaders point to utility lead times and power limits as a barrier to industrial recruitment
Summary
Stakeholders said limited electrical capacity, long utility lead times (Ameren) and potential need for substation upgrades constrain site readiness in the industrial park and deter tenants needing immediate service.
Business representatives and city staff warned that inadequate power infrastructure and long utility lead times are a frequent impediment to landing industrial tenants in Effingham.
Participants described cases where a potential tenant required a level of electrical service that would have forced a utility to upgrade a substation, adding multiple years to the project timeline. One attendee said developers were told lead times could be 1-2 years or longer for the required transformers and switches; another said Ameren delays have slowed local street-light and extension projects.
City staff said site readiness is a priority and that the city is investigating options such as selling ground for solar projects and other initiatives to shore up capacity, but speakers cautioned that utilities typically respond only when demand is demonstrated.
Speakers recommended that the comprehensive plan and economic-development strategy include proactive infrastructure investments, pre-permitting and inter-agency outreach to reduce lead times and make Effingham more competitive when large employers seek immediate sites.
