#United States #FirstEnergy Corp #Potomac Edison #Martinsburg #Berkeley County

Introduction

The Potomac Edison company, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., has made a significant leap in enhancing power reliability for its customers in Berkeley County. With the completion of a new substation, this facility is set to transform the electric service landscape for the community. This article delves into the details of the new substation, its features, and the broader investments in electrical grid modernization by FirstEnergy.

A Step Towards Greater Reliability

As of December 2025, Potomac Edison has finished constructing a modern substation aimed at delivering more reliable electric service to about 2,400 homes and businesses in the rapidly growing areas of Falling Waters and Spring Mills. Prior to this project, the customers were largely dependent on two older substations, which were nearing their operational limits. The establishment of the new facility not only aims to reduce potential outages but also enhances the efficiency of power restoration protocols.

Modern Technological Advancements

The new substation is equipped with advanced, automated technologies designed specifically for improved reliability and operational efficiency.

• - Spotting Issues Quickly: This modern infrastructure has the capability to identify issues in real-time, enabling swift responses to any power-related problems.
• - Isolating Problems: The system's design ensures that if an outage occurs, it can isolate the issue, minimizing the number of customers affected.
• - Remote Restoration: One of the most remarkable features of this new substation is the ability to restore power remotely without always needing to send a crew, thus reducing downtime significantly.

These features collectively contribute to a more resilient power supply and illustrate Potomac Edison's commitment to upgrading its service offering to cope with rising demand.

Supporting Local Growth

Berkeley County is recognized as one of West Virginia's fastest-growing areas, making it essential for utilities to expand their capacity. Jim Myers, FirstEnergy’s President for West Virginia and Maryland, emphasized the significance of evolving the electric system alongside community growth. He stated, “Reliable power is the backbone of thriving communities, and this substation reflects our commitment to our customers.”

By adding this modern infrastructure, Potomac Edison is ensuring that residents and businesses in the area have access to stable electricity, which is pivotal for their daily operations and lifestyle. The proactive measures taken by FirstEnergy signal their long-term vision for service reliability, especially in regions characterized by rapid development.

A Part of a Larger Investment Strategy

This $6.6 million substation project represents just one element of a larger initiative known as Energize365, which is focused on modernizing and enhancing the electric grid across the region. FirstEnergy has outlined plans to invest a staggering $36 billion from 2026 to 2030 with the aim of constructing a smarter and more resilient grid that effectively meets the needs of evolving communities in its service area.

Potomac Edison caters to approximately 285,000 customers located in various counties in Maryland, as well as about 155,000 customers in the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. The recent upgrades and investments reflect FirstEnergy's dedication to providing reliable electric service while prioritizing safety and operational excellence for its customer base.

Conclusion

With the introduction of the new substation in Berkeley County, Potomac Edison is not only enhancing reliability and efficiency but is also paving the way for a sustainable future as community needs grow. As the company moves forward with its substantial investment plans, customers can expect continued improvements in service and reliability that align with the demands of modern living. Potomac Edison, together with FirstEnergy Corp., is dedicated to ensuring that customers have the dependable electricity they require to thrive in a rapidly changing environment.