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.

November 2025: Following an in-person open house in April, project team members are looking at alternatives to help resolve and minimize concerns from the community. Alternatives could include, but aren't limited to, options such as letting encroachments stay within the easement area and other solutions that don't compromise the safety, future operation, and maintenance of the electric line.

To assist in developing a solution, it is necessary to conduct ground penetrating radar and soil borings within the existing easement area. Crews plan to begin field work around November 17. The project team plans to evaluate results and distribute an update to the community, including a revised schedule, in early 2026.