PORTSMOUTH — Rhode Island Energy is continuing a multi-year infrastructure improvement project to enhance safety, reliability and system performance for nearly 1,800 customers across five Portsmouth neighborhoods.
The utility company announced Tuesday that crews will upgrade nearly 3.5 miles of electric equipment in The Hummocks, Island Park, Common Fence Point, The Point Section and Portsmouth Village neighborhoods over the next three to five years.
The upgrades come as Portsmouth has experienced significant electrical load growth over the past 20 to 30 years, driven by beach homes and cottages being converted to full-time residences.
“Meeting the needs of the communities we serve is paramount to being a great partner, and keeping the energy flowing,” said Greg Cornett, president of Rhode Island Energy. “Completing these upgrades in Portsmouth will help to improve safety, reliability, and ensure our neighbors are set up for success for years to come.”
The infrastructure improvements will include installing larger utility poles and upgrading electrical equipment such as wires and transformers to support increased load demand, improve voltage quality and strengthen the electrical system.
Rhode Island Energy serves more than 770,000 customers across the state through electricity and natural gas delivery. The company is part of PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL).
For more information, visit www.RIEnergy.com.