Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L), a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., has initiated a significant upgrade to a transmission substation in northern New Jersey. The project, located in Franklin Borough, aims to improve the reliability of electricity supply for customers in Sussex County. The estimated cost is $50.3 million, and it is expected to take around 18 months to complete.
Doug Mokoid, President of FirstEnergy's New Jersey operations, stated: "The extensive work happening both inside and outside the fence of our substation in Franklin is designed to enhance the reliability and resiliency of the backbone of our electric grid. Once complete, this project will help us deliver the safe, reliable electricity our customers expect."
The upgrades include reconfiguring the substation for increased redundancy and flexibility, installing new electrical equipment and a control enclosure, replacing an old transformer, and adding a third transformer. Additionally, four steel monopoles will be installed outside the substation to replace existing wooden utility poles and one lattice tower. This change will allow for reconfiguration of two high-voltage power lines that provide backup service if primary lines fail.
Approximately 4,500 JCP&L customers in Franklin Borough, Hamburg Borough, Hardyston, Ogdensburg, and Sparta are expected to benefit from these improvements.
This initiative is part of Energize365, FirstEnergy's program aimed at investing $26 billion between 2024 and 2028 across its six-state footprint. The goal is to create a smarter and more secure grid capable of meeting current demands while preparing for future challenges.
JCP&L serves about 1.1 million customers across several counties in New Jersey. More information can be found on their social media platforms or website.
FirstEnergy operates one of the largest investor-owned electric systems in the United States with over six million customers across multiple states. They manage approximately 24,000 miles of transmission lines connecting various regions.
For further details or inquiries, contact Chris Hoenig at (609) 350-8599 or Karen Sagot at (330) 761-4286.