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Investing in the Future of Electric Reliability in Hunterdon County

In a major move to bolster the reliability of electric services, Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L), a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., is investing $15.4 million in infrastructure upgrades across Hunterdon County. This initiative is set to benefit over 3,600 customers within the region, ensuring that they receive a more resilient and dependable electricity supply.

Key Enhancements

The upgrades are focused on several critical enhancements including:

• - Reinforcement of Power Lines: JCP&L is strengthening over 20 miles of overhead power lines and 30 poles. These efforts are essential to increasing the overall capacity of the grid and improving storm resilience.
• - Installation of Underground Wires: By placing nearly 3 miles of underground lines in forested areas, the company aims to minimize outages and expedite repairs during severe weather conditions.
• - Smart Circuit Technology: The reconfiguration of neighborhood circuits will allow more efficient operations, enabling JCP&L to temporarily switch customers during outages, thereby maximizing reliability.
• - Automated Power Restoration: With the introduction of TripSaver devices, temporary power line issues such as minor branch contact will be detected automatically, restoring service without the need for onsite crews.
• - Enhanced Vegetation Management: Increased efforts in tree trimming and vegetation management will further augment service reliability and reduce the risk of outages.

Addressing Growing Demand

The investments come at a crucial time as demand for electricity continues to rise in communities served by JCP&L substations in Baptistown and Rosemont. FirstEnergy's President of New Jersey, Doug Mokoid, emphasized the importance of these upgrades, stating, "As our local communities grow, they need more power to keep homes and businesses running. We're strengthening overhead power lines and putting some lines underground to help ensure our customers have reliable power—even during storms. These smart improvements mean safer, more dependable electricity for everyone."

A Comprehensive Improvement Plan

This project forms part of the broader New Jersey Reliability Improvement Project, which is a two-phase initiative designed to enhance the reliability of lines with a history of outages. Over the next two years, a total of at least $95 million is earmarked for ongoing upgrades, underscoring JCP&L's commitment to modernizing the electric grid.

Moreover, these enhancements are not isolated efforts; they are integral to FirstEnergy's extensive Energize365 program, a $28 billion initiative aimed at modernizing the electric grid across the region from 2025 to 2029. The ultimate goal is to create a smarter and more secure grid that caters to both current and future consumer needs.

Community Benefits

JCP&L serves approximately 1.1 million customers across multiple counties, including Burlington, Essex, Hunterdon, and more. The recent improvements not only aim to reduce the likelihood of outages but also to expedite restoration efforts when they do occur, enhancing the overall quality of life for residents.

Customers are encouraged to stay informed about these upgrades and ongoing improvements by following JCP&L on social media platforms like Twitter and Facebook. By investing in modern technology and infrastructure, JCP&L is paving the way for a stronger electric future in Hunterdon County and beyond.

In conclusion, the $15.4 million investment by JCP&L is a clear indication of the company’s dedication to enhancing service reliability and adapting to the evolving needs of the communities they serve. With these upgrades, residents can look forward to a more resilient electric supply that keeps pace with their demands and safeguards their quality of life, particularly during adverse weather conditions.