North ColumbusTransmission Line Rebuild Project

AEP Ohio representatives plan power grid upgrades in Franklin and Delaware counties. The project involves rebuilding about 4.5 miles of power line and upgrading three substations to increase operational performance and capacity of the the local electric grid.

Plans call for rebuilding the power lines with steel poles in the existing right-of-way, although company representatives might need to acquire new or supplement current easements to ensure the safe construction, operation and maintenance of the power lines.

The existing power lines and substations date back to the 1930s. The infrastructure is aging, and the area has experienced multiple outages in recent years. The planned improvements modernize the local transmission system with upgraded substation equipment and steel poles, improve operational performance and increase electric capacity to provide for improved service.

The regional grid operator PJM Interconnection (PJM) has identified the need for these upgrades to ensure reliable operation of the local electric grid. PJM is the regional transmission organization that coordinates the transportation of bulk electricity across a 13-state region.

AEP Ohio representatives are hosting an in-person open house and invite you to learn more about the project. Please join us from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 3rd at Bridgewater Banquet & Conference Center, located at 10561 Sawmill Parkway in Powell. Visitors can view detailed maps and meet with project representatives. There's no formal presentation, so you can come and go at any time.

Field surveys are underway. Crews conducting the surveys plan to use existing roads or lands, whenever possible, to access the power line. AEP Ohio employees and contractors wear hard hats and high-visibility vests, carry an ID badge and clearly display identification on vehicle dashboards.