FirstEnergy powers up new Northampton substation
The new Klecknersville Substation boosts reliability for 5,400 customers with smart grid tech, shorter power lines, and wildlife protection measures.
Image for illustrative purposes
USA, Pennsylvania: FirstEnergy Corp. has energised the new Klecknersville Substation in Northampton County, Pennsylvania, marking a major step towards enhanced power reliability for 5,400 customers. The project is part of the company’s $28 B Energize365 investment programme, which will modernise the electric grid from 2025 to 2029.
Replacing older power lines that stretched 24–32 km ( 15–20 mi) from the Northwood Substation in Palmer Township, the new facility now delivers electricity over shorter 8–16-km (5–10-mi) lines. This reduces the risk of outages from tree damage or vehicle accidents and improves overall service efficiency.
Equipped with smart grid technology, the substation can automatically detect and isolate faults, restore service remotely, and pinpoint outage locations for faster repairs. Customers are expected to benefit from fewer, shorter, and less widespread interruptions.
To further safeguard reliability, the substation includes wildlife guards such as rubber boots and sleeves to keep animals away from energised equipment.
John Hawkins, President of FirstEnergy Pennsylvania, called the project “a big win for the community,” highlighting its role in easing the load on the Northwood Substation and improving service in Palmer Township, especially during peak summer demand.
The Klecknersville Substation represents a significant milestone in FirstEnergy’s commitment to building a more resilient, efficient, and future-ready grid for Northampton County and beyond.
Source: AInvest
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