A significant upgrade to the electric grid is underway in Berks County, Pennsylvania, aiming to enhance electricity reliability for more than 6,000 FirstEnergy Pennsylvania customers. The Van Reed 69-kV Transmission Project, managed by Mid-Atlantic Interstate Transmission LLC (MAIT), a FirstEnergy Transmission company, involves building a new substation in Bern Township and installing nearly four miles of high-voltage power lines on both wood and steel poles. The project is designed to decrease outages around Reading, Bern Township, and Leesport while supporting growth in southeastern Pennsylvania.
Mark Mroczynski, President of Transmission for FirstEnergy, stated: “With valuable input from community members and public officials, we’re delivering a project that reflects their feedback and supports what matters most to the region. This solution enhances service reliability for everyday customers while helping to attract new jobs, new families and new opportunities. We’re proud to help carry that momentum forward by investing in the power infrastructure needed to meet today’s demand and tomorrow’s potential.”
The initiative has received support from the Berks County Commissioners and local development agencies since its early planning stages almost ten years ago. By collaborating closely with these groups, FE PA and MAIT are working to ensure dependable electric service for current residents as well as future employers.
Construction began in January 2026 with an expected completion date before the end of the year.
For residents in central Berks County, this project is expected to provide greater reliability during periods of high demand such as extreme weather events. The upgrades include backup power sources and advanced equipment capable of rerouting electricity during outages. As a result, customers can expect fewer outages, faster restoration times, and more reliable service for homes and businesses.
Berks County Commissioner Christian Leinbach commented: “This project is a critical investment in Berks County’s future. Strengthening the power grid means more reliable electric service for our residents and businesses. This initiative paves the way for economic growth across the region, especially the area surrounding the Reading Regional Airport. It provides the power for existing businesses to expand and attracts new businesses while moving our community forward.”
Jeffrey Rush, Board Chairman of Greater Reading Chamber Alliance added: “The Greater Reading Chamber Alliance supports FirstEnergy’s continued investment in expanding electric service in Berks County. Reliable, resilient energy infrastructure is foundational to business attraction, retention and expansion. These improvements strengthen our competitive position and support long-term economic growth across the region.”
The approximately $30 million Van Reed project forms part of Energize365—FirstEnergy’s long-term program aimed at modernizing the electric grid. Between 2026 and 2030, FirstEnergy plans investments totaling $36 billion across its service areas; this includes about $13 billion dedicated specifically within Pennsylvania split between transmission and distribution improvements.
FirstEnergy manages roughly 24,000 miles of transmission lines nationwide as detailed on its official website. The company serves over six million customers across Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland and New York according to company information.
FirstEnergy emphasizes corporate responsibility through environmental initiatives and community engagement as noted on its official website. The company has also been recognized for compliance leadership as well as military-friendly practices according to corporate responsibility reports.
Customers interested in learning more about modern transmission systems can view FirstEnergy’s video series “Why a Modern Transmission System Matters to You” on YouTube.
FirstEnergy Transmission is jointly owned by FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) and Brookfield Super-Core Infrastructure Partners. Its subsidiaries operate major transmission networks including American Transmission Systems Inc., Mid-Atlantic Interstate Transmission LLC (MAIT), and Trans-Allegheny Interstate Line Company (TrAILCo).
Further details about FirstEnergy’s operations are available at firstenergycorp.com or on X @FirstEnergyCorp.
