Jersey Central Power & Light (JCP&L) has initiated preparations for infrastructure upgrades aimed at enhancing the regional power grid in central New Jersey. The project, located in Ocean and Burlington counties, involves clearing brush along 14 miles of existing right-of-way to install new utility poles that will support a high-voltage power line. This development is expected to improve service reliability for thousands of residents and businesses.
The construction, set to commence in early September, will use helicopters to install equipment and string power lines in hard-to-reach areas. This method minimizes landscape disruption and enhances worker safety. The project is scheduled for completion by June 2026.
Doug Mokoid, FirstEnergy’s New Jersey President, stated: “As energy needs continue to grow and evolve, we’re keeping pace by strengthening our grid, adding additional capacity and using innovative tools like helicopters to build a more resilient system that keeps the power flowing, even during storms or unexpected outages.”
The work includes upgrading both new and existing overhead high-voltage lines with stronger wire capable of handling increased capacity and offering greater resilience during storms.
This initiative is part of Energize365, FirstEnergy's grid evolution program. It plans to invest $28 billion between 2025 and 2029 across its six-state footprint to create a smarter grid.
JCP&L serves 1.1 million customers across several counties including Burlington and Ocean. FirstEnergy serves over six million customers across multiple states including Ohio and New Jersey.
News Media Contact: Lauren Siburkis at (330) 203-8850; Investor Contact: Karen Sagot at (330) 761-4286