A regional power distribution company announced plans to upgrade ageing transformers and substations across several southwestern states, aiming to reduce the frequency of outages that have long frustrated residents and businesses.

The upgrade, to be rolled out in phases over the next 18 months, will prioritise industrial clusters and densely populated residential areas first.

“We recognise the toll unreliable power has taken on households and small businesses, and this investment is a direct response,” a company representative said.

Business owners in the affected areas welcomed the announcement but said they would judge the initiative by results rather than promises, citing past upgrade plans that fell short of expectations.