A significant upgrade to the power grid is underway in southeastern Pennsylvania, as FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) invests $28 million in a transmission project aimed at improving electric reliability for thousands of customers in Lehigh and Berks counties. The initiative, named the Allentown–Lyons–South Hamburg 69-kilovolt Line Rebuild, is being executed by Mid-Atlantic Interstate Transmission, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy. It involves the reconstruction of approximately 15 miles of high-voltage power lines and the modernization of equipment at four substations.
Construction for this extensive project began in August 2023 and is expected to be completed by November 2027. The upgrades include the replacement of outdated infrastructure with sturdier poles and higher-capacity conductors designed to withstand severe weather conditions and other frequent causes of outages. Once the project is finished, it is anticipated to enhance the flow of electricity across the regional network, providing operators with improved flexibility to reroute power during emergencies or maintenance work.
Investment in Future Growth
Mark Mroczynski, president of transmission for FirstEnergy, emphasized that this investment reflects the company’s commitment to long-term system performance. “The upgraded line will create a more resilient and adaptable grid capable of supporting future growth across southeastern Pennsylvania,” he stated. FirstEnergy’s Met-Ed utility serves customers in the region, making this development particularly relevant for local residents.
The project entails the installation of new, higher-capacity conductors at the substations, which will significantly increase the volume of electricity that can be transmitted. This upgrade is designed to accommodate peak demand during extreme weather conditions, prevent system overloads, and ensure quicker restoration of service during disruptions.
Part of a Broader Modernization Initiative
This rebuild is part of Energize365, FirstEnergy’s multi-year grid modernization initiative. Under this program, the company plans to invest approximately $28 billion between 2025 and 2029 to enhance transmission and distribution systems across its service area. The goal is to deliver a more secure and efficient grid that aligns with long-term economic and population growth.
For residents in Lehigh and Berks counties, the project signifies a behind-the-scenes investment that promises visible benefits. As the upgraded infrastructure comes online, customers can expect fewer interruptions, faster recovery times, and an electric system built to meet the demands of the coming decades.
This significant investment not only aims to bolster reliability but also positions the region for future growth, making it a pivotal development in southeastern Pennsylvania’s energy landscape.
