FirstEnergy Corp.’s Pennsylvania utilities recently completed more than $120 million in major projects that upgrade the electric distribution system and infrastructure.
Upgrades included installing new utility poles, replacing hundreds of miles of existing power lines, and installing fencing around some substations to help deter climbing animals and protect against electrical equipment interference.
“Our Pennsylvania utilities remain committed to updating and modernizing the infrastructure, technology, and equipment used to provide safe, dependable electric service to customers for many years to come,” Scott Wyman, FirstEnergy’s Pennsylvania Operations president, said. “We identify and undertake projects that strengthen a vast distribution network exposed to severe weather, time, tree contacts, vehicle accidents, and other hazards.”
FirstEnergy’s five-year Long Term Infrastructure Improvement Plan will increase reliability and minimize power outages for two million customers served by four of the company’s electric distribution companies.
The plan covers the years 2020 through 2024 and invests $572 million. Improvements include installing new substation equipment, network vaults, and manhole covers; reconfiguring circuits; replacing older utility poles, underground and overhead lines, and fuses; and placing additional automated equipment in the field.
Automated reclosing devices help limit the frequency, duration, and scope of service interruptions and allow utility personnel to automatically restore service.