Clermont County Pole Maintenance Project

Reliability is a responsibility that Duke Energy takes very seriously. As part of our dedication to build a smarter energy framework in Clermont County, Duke Energy will be making improvements to a 69-kilovolt (kV) transmission line through portions of Pierce, Monroe and Ohio townships.

Project Need

Recent inspections found a need to replace or repair approximately 75 wood utility poles on the transmission line. This project will improve the reliability of the network that serves these communities.

Project Description

The wood utility poles will either be repaired or replaced with steel pole construction. Portions of this project also will involve an entire rebuild – including new conductor, steel pole replacements and related equipment – in Pierce and Monroe townships. The new steel pole construction will be equal to or 5 feet taller than the present wood poles to improve reliability. The new poles will be built within 5 feet of the existing pole locations.

Pre-construction activities such as vegetation clearing will begin in January 2021. These removals will allow safe and reliable access for construction crews. To ensure reliable energy, trees that are close to power lines must be trimmed or removed so that they don't disrupt electric service to homes, businesses, schools and hospitals.

Crews will assemble in February 2021 to begin the layout of materials and preparation for construction. Construction is expected to begin in March 2021 and could run through summer, followed by restoration through the end of 2021. The schedule may shift due to circumstances such as weather conditions.

Benefits to the Community

• Improves electrical system reliability
• Maintains a robust system for supplying and delivering energy, which is integral to ensuring the continued economic growth and prosperity of the community
• Improves power quality and reliability

Engagement

Community engagement allows us to receive input and to share information about this project.

Property owners first received notification about this project in September 2020, followed by a letter in December 2020.