Potomac Edison, a FirstEnergy Corp. electric company, has finalized its winter preparations to ensure reliable power for customers in Maryland as colder weather approaches. Inspections and maintenance have been completed across the service area, aiming to support electric system reliability during the winter months.
Don McGettigan, Acting President of FirstEnergy in Maryland, emphasized the importance of these measures: “Ensuring our system is well-prepared for the challenges of winter weather is crucial. These proactive steps will help us provide safe and reliable power to keep our customers comfortable in the coming months as they rely on electricity to stay warm.”
The company has conducted thorough inspections of substation equipment and winterized control buildings. Special thermovision cameras were used by electricians to identify potential issues such as loose connections and corrosion that are not visible through regular inspections. Utility poles were also inspected for stability.
Tree trimming has been carried out throughout the year to maintain clearances around electrical systems, preventing outages from snow, wind, and ice. Potomac Edison aims to complete trimming along 1,800 miles of power lines by year-end.
FirstEnergy has introduced a new vegetation management tool showcased on their YouTube channel. In addition, bucket trucks and other vehicles have been inspected for safe operation during winter, with particular attention given to tires and air braking systems.
Customers can find tips for preparing for severe weather and view restoration updates at FirstEnergy’s Power Center online.
Potomac Edison serves approximately 285,000 customers in several Maryland counties including Allegany and Montgomery. More information about payment assistance programs is available on their website.
FirstEnergy’s distribution companies serve over six million customers across multiple states including Ohio and New York. Their transmission subsidiaries manage around 24,000 miles of transmission lines connecting regions from the Midwest to the Mid-Atlantic.
Photos and videos related to these preparations are available online for media use.
For further information or inquiries, contact Will Boye or Gina Caskey using the provided details.
