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Electric Grid Enhancements in Morris County

Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L), a key player in New Jersey's electric utility sector and a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., has embarked on an ambitious construction project designed to bolster the reliability of electric service in Morris County. This initiative is part of the broader New Jersey Reliability Improvement Project, and it marks a significant investment of approximately $95 million aimed at addressing reliability issues that have affected local customers.

Project Overview

The construction efforts began recently and are expected to wrap up by October 2025. This timeline is strategically set within the framework of a rate review settlement that was sanctioned by the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities earlier this year. The upgrade will focus on three specific communities within Morris County: Chester, Washington, and Roxbury townships. A total of over 2,100 customers are anticipated to benefit from these enhancements.

According to Doug Mokoid, the President of FirstEnergy's New Jersey division, the enhancements are a direct response to customer feedback and the need to ensure a dependable electricity supply, especially in areas that have historically experienced frequent outages. The upgrades are crucial for minimizing disruptions, especially during inclement weather conditions which often lead to power outages.

Key Enhancements

The planned improvements encompass a variety of infrastructure upgrades, including:

• - Stronger and Thicker Wires and Poles: The existing infrastructure will be replaced with heavier-duty wires and more robust poles, enabling them to carry increased loads of electricity, which is especially vital during peak usage times. The enhanced materials are also designed to withstand adverse weather better.

• - Advanced Fuses and Reclosers: The project will upgrade fuses and install additional reclosers along the power lines. These devices automatically direct electricity to alternate paths in the event of an outage, significantly reducing the number of customers affected when problems occur.

• - TripSaver Devices: Another innovative solution being implemented is the installation of TripSaver devices that automatically reenergize lines after temporary issues, such as tree branches brushing against power lines, without the need for a technician to check the situation manually.

• - Vegetation Management: More extensive tree trimming and vegetation management will also be performed along the power lines to prevent outages caused by falling branches or other natural debris.

Phased Implementation

This initiative is divided into two phases. The first phase, including the immediate projects, will be executed over the next three years with an investment of at least $95 million. The second phase, which will comprise larger projects with more extended timelines, is expected to be completed by the end of 2028.

JCP&L has a broad customer base, serving 1.1 million customers across multiple New Jersey counties. This particular initiative is a clear testament to its commitment to enhancing service reliability and operational excellence across its service area. JCP&L continues to communicate updates on the project through various channels including social media platforms.

FirstEnergy Corp., with its expansive operations that stretch over several states, aims to ensure that its electric distribution system remains one of the most reliable in the nation. The infrastructure upgrades in Morris County are just one step in a larger commitment to deliver safe and reliable energy to all its customers.

For further information, customers are encouraged to visit JCP&L's website or follow them on social media platforms. The continued collaboration and investment in infrastructure signal a positive move towards improved electric delivery system reliability in the future.