Pennsylvania — FirstEnergy’s Penn Power has started construction on a new distribution substation in Lawrence County to support the area's growing demand for electricity.

The project includes the installation of automated equipment and technology within the new substation and along power lines serving more than 30,000 customers in parts of New Castle, North Beaver Township, Shenango Township and nearby areas, reports T&D World.

As part of the construction process, crews recently completed the foundation work at the new substation site in North Beaver Township and will begin erecting steel structures at the facility in mid-September.

The project also includes the construction of a short high-voltage power line to connect the new substation with an existing 69 kV line located nearby. The new substation is expected to be completed and operational by the end of this year.

This work builds upon system upgrades that were completed last year across Penn Power's service area, including the installation of nearly 50 automated reclosing devices and the addition of interior fencing in three substations to help deter climbing animals and protect against electrical equipment interference that can cause power outages.

It is part of Penn Power's second phase Long Term Infrastructure Improvement Plan (LTIIP II), approved by the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission to help enhance electric service for customers.

Source: T&D World