JCP&L's Infrastructure Upgrades in Ocean and Burlington Counties to Enhance Reliability

Enhancements to Power Reliability in Ocean and Burlington Counties

Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) has officially launched its infrastructure upgrades aimed at improving the reliability of electricity services for its vast customer base in Ocean and Burlington counties. This essential project is part of the ever-expanding efforts by JCP&L to keep up with the growing energy demands and is expected to benefit thousands of residents and businesses alike.

Project Overview

The work involves extensive land preparation across 14 miles of existing right-of-way, necessary to facilitate the installation of new utility poles that will support a high-voltage power line. This new line will not only enhance the delivery efficiency and reliability of electricity but also serve as a backup power source in the event of damage or maintenance needs on the primary line. The project will positively impact several communities, including North Hanover Township, New Hanover, Plumsted Township, and Jackson Township, ensuring that residents can enjoy more reliable power services.

Scheduled to commence in early September, this ambitious project will utilize helicopters for the installation of equipment and stringing power lines in areas that are challenging to access via traditional ground methods. This innovative approach ensures that sites remain minimally disrupted and helps expedite the overall process while enhancing safety for crew members. The use of helicopters signifies a shift toward more environmentally friendly practices, reducing the need for extensive road construction or landscape modification.

Production Timeline and Goals

With construction set to wrap up by June 2026, JCP&L aims to replace existing overhead high-voltage lines along the route with stronger, thicker wires to accommodate increased capacity and weather resilience. Doug Mokoid, president of FirstEnergy in New Jersey, expressed commitment to modernizing their power grid, stating, "As energy needs continue to grow and evolve, we're strengthening our grid and using innovations like helicopter deployment to build a more resilient system that keeps the power flowing during storms or outages."

This infrastructure enhancement is part of the broader Energize365 program initiated by FirstEnergy, which identifies a commitment to invest $28 billion across six states, focusing on developing a smarter, more secure electric grid by 2029. Energize365 is determined to ensure that energy delivery systems not only meet today's challenges but are also poised to address future demands.

Who Benefits?

Currently, JCP&L powers approximately 1.1 million customers across several counties, including Burlington, Essex, Hunterdon, Mercer, and others. As the area continues to grow and evolve, JCP&L's improved energy strategy becomes crucial. The upgrades are tailored to create a more reliable electricity infrastructure, ensuring uninterrupted power in the face of natural events or unexpected equipment failures.

JCP&L remains dedicated to maintaining operational excellence and high safety standards while rolling out these upgrades. Continuous communication about the project's progress will be provided through various platforms, allowing customers to stay informed about the changes that will ultimately enhance their daily lives.

For more information, customers can follow JVJ&L on social media platforms or visit their official website to keep informed on updates regarding the upgrades and their impact on the community.

Conclusion

The significant overhaul of the power grid in Ocean and Burlington counties represents a pivotal step towards ensuring reliable electricity for a growing customer base. The innovative measures being implemented, including the use of helicopters for construction, underline FirstEnergy's commitment to safety, efficiency, and ecological consideration. As this project unfolds, the positive impacts on local residents and businesses are anticipated to be substantial, making it an exciting development for the region's energy future.