JACKSON, Mich. — Consumers Energy is set to install 1,200 iron utility poles in areas of Michigan in hopes of improving the reliability of the state's electrical grid.
The new iron poles are said to be stronger, lighter and longer lasting than the current wooden poles. The utility company says the new poles are expected to last over 80 years, about double the lifespan of wooden poles.
“These new iron poles will fortify our infrastructure, reducing the number of times that homes and businesses lose power,” said Greg Salisbury, Consumers Energy’s vice president of electric distribution engineering. “Their ability to withstand the elements will protect the power lines and help to reduce customer outages in the future.”
Consumers Energy said they spent $3.5 million on the new utility poles, which are engineered to resist fire and the effects of Michigan's weather.
The utility company is planning on installing the iron poles in the Kalamazoo, Greenville and Tawas areas first. Following the initial installations, Consumers will begin to add iron poles to other areas as well as replace some wooden poles.
“Installing these initial iron poles is another meaningful step toward modernizing the grid and improving reliability for our customers,” said Chris Laird, Consumers Energy’s vice president of electric operations. “When the weather is good, you’ll see our crews busy at work this year installing poles safely and quickly to make sure we’re ready for storms.”
The installation of the new iron poles is part of the company's "Reliability Roadmap," which is their plan to increase the reliability of their electrical grid.
►Make it easy to keep up to date with more stories like this. Download the 13 ON YOUR SIDE app now.
Have a news tip? Email news@13onyourside.com, visit our Facebook page or Twitter. Subscribe to our YouTube channel.
Watch 13 ON YOUR SIDE for free on Roku, Amazon Fire TV Stick, Apple TV and on your phone.
