Ohio Edison finishes work on electric service reliability projects for northeast Ohio

Electric service reliability improvements are nearing completion for Ohio Edison customers in Trumbull, Mahoning, Ashtabula, and Columbiana counties, as part of a three-year investment plan approved by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio.

These efforts consist of grid modernization projects, including automated reclosing devices and the replacement of power lines.

“Severe storms have the potential to cause damage to poles, wires, and substations, requiring crews to make repairs in difficult conditions,” Ed Shuttleworth, regional president of Penn Power and Ohio Edison, said. “The completion of this work ahead of winter strengthens our electric system to help keep the power flowing safely and reliably to customers when they depend on it the most to stay warm and comfortable, and it will benefit them year-round.”

In all, 20 reclosing devices will be added to the system, allowing the utility to automatically deactivate and reenergize power lines after certain types of outages, thereby limiting the frequency, duration, and scope of service interruptions. They are like automated circuit breakers, in this sense, and eliminate delays inherent in having to dispatch utility personnel to investigate issues.

Additionally, 11 miles of existing power lines will be replaced with thicker, durable wire and new power lines. The latter will connect customers with an alternate circuit to provide options during outages. The new lines will also be more capable of withstanding tree debris and severe weather damage.

Work on these projects has been underway since March and should be finished by the end of the year.