The U.S. Navy proposes to construct a looped power distribution system on the ammunition wharf on Naval Magazine Indian Island to provide permanent shore power for submarines during ordnance-handling operations, according to a press release on Monday, Dec. 15.

Currently, submarines using the ammunition wharf receive power from two diesel-powered generators located on the shore adjacent to the ammunition wharf. The new power distribution system would entail installing new power poles and new overhead distribution lines along existing roads; upgrading existing overhead distribution lines between the gate and the ammunition wharf; and replacing an existing electrical substation on the ammunition wharf.

Once the new system becomes operational, the Navy would remove the existing diesel generators and supporting equipment.

The project is currently under design, and the Navy is preparing an environmental assessment to analyze the potential environmental effects of the proposed action, pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act. The Navy anticipates that the draft environmental assessment will be available for public review and comment in the spring of 2015.