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Exploring the compelling reasons to switch to solar energy
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 10, 2024
If you're contemplating the switch to solar energy but remain undecided, consider these compelling reasons to embrace this clean, renewable source of power.
FirstEnergy conducts aerial inspections using infrared technology
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 10, 2024
FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) is implementing proactive aerial inspections of nearly 7,000 miles of transmission lines across its service territory to ensure the uninterrupted and safe supply of power. The company is using helicopters equipped with infrared technology for these inspections, which are designed to keep high-voltage power lines and equipment clear of trees and vegetation.
Ohio legislature debates on adopting community solar program
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 10, 2024
Community Solar is a program designed to allow individuals to partake in the benefits of solar energy, even if they are unable to install solar systems on their properties. The reasons for this inability could range from renting their homes to lacking sufficient sunny space on their rooftops for a full-fledged solar panel system. Community Solar offers these individuals the chance to own their renewable energy system and receive credit on their electric bills.
YellowLite's webinar explores buying versus leasing solar panels
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 10, 2024
If you're contemplating the installation of a solar system at your property but are uncertain about whether to buy or lease solar panels, YellowLite is hosting an informative webinar to delve into this topic in detail. The event is scheduled for May 22, 2024, at 12:00 PM EST.
States and NRECA file lawsuits against EPA over new power plant rules
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 10, 2024
Ohio's Attorney General, in conjunction with 26 other states and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), has initiated lawsuits against the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) over new power plant regulations concerning greenhouse gas emissions. The lawsuits were filed on Thursday, May 9.
FirstEnergy subsidiary initiates high-voltage power system upgrade in Northwest Ohio
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 9, 2024
American Transmission Systems, Inc. (ATSI), a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp., has initiated construction to upgrade a 138-kilovolt substation in Lucas County's Springfield Township and reconfigure connecting high-voltage power lines. This combined effort is expected to improve reliability for nearly 23,000 Toledo Edison customers in the area.
Congratulations 2024 Ohio's Electric Cooperatives' Children of Members Scholarship Winners
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 2, 2024
The winners of the 2024 OEC’s Children of Members Scholarship contest have been announced, with high school seniors from member households across Ohio emerging victorious. In a statement, the organization expressed its joy and pride in the talented individuals who clinched the scholarships.According to a report, a panel of independent judges carefully reviewed applications and essays submitted by the students to select the recipients. The deciding factor for the winners was their understanding and articulation of the Seven Cooperative Principles, along with their personal...
Maximizing the Lifespan of Solar Batteries: A Comprehensive Guide
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 2, 2024
"May 2 2024"In the realm of solar energy technology, a common query arises concerning the longevity of solar batteries. The durability of these batteries not only impacts savings but also influences the ability to control energy consumption, thereby fostering a sustainable and cost-effective lifestyle.Lithium-ion batteries stand out as the preferred choice for residential solar systems due to their high energy density, long cycle life, low maintenance requirement, efficient charging capabilities, and improved safety features. These batteries typically last between 10 to...
Mon Power Selected by U.S. Department of Energy for Reliability Project Grant
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 2, 2024
FAIRMONT, W.Va., May 2, 2024 -- FirstEnergy Corp. subsidiary Mon Power has been chosen by the Department of Energy to enter into award negotiations for a potential $5 million federal funding grant. The project aims to enhance electric reliability for customers in rural areas of West Virginia, as part of the Energy Improvements in Rural or Remote Areas (ERA) program established under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law.The grant, if approved, will be utilized to revamp over 23 miles of power lines in Pocahontas, Braxton, and Clay counties, along with establishing a two-mile...
Director's Quick Thinking Saves the Day in Safety Incident
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 1, 2024
In a recent incident at a meeting in the Touchstone rooms of a statewide office, a director's quick thinking and decisive actions saved a life, highlighting the importance of safety leadership in organizations.During the meeting, a director suddenly appeared to be in distress, leading CEO Pat O’Loughlin and Nila Moyers to intervene. Nila attempted the Heimlich maneuver unsuccessfully, prompting Pat to step in and successfully clear the director's airway. The director later revealed that she was on the verge of passing out before receiving assistance.Reflecting on the...
RESAP/Commitment to Zero Contacts (CtZ) Phase 2 Progresses Towards Success
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 1, 2024
In a recent update on the RESAP/Commitment to Zero Contacts (CtZ) Phase 2 program, significant progress has been reported. The year 2024 has been highlighted as a milestone for the completion of the first round of CtZ Phase 2.One participant in the program expressed their positive experience, stating, "It has been amazing to be in those 18 closed door sessions talking about things openly and honestly with your line personnel." The emphasis was on fostering open communication, trust, and transparency within the cooperative environment. The dedication of lineworkers to...
May 2024 Cooperative Safety Highlight - Hancock-Wood Electric
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 1, 2024
In the latest May 2024 issue of SAFELINES, the spotlight is on Hancock-Wood Electric Cooperative and their innovative safety practices. The Cooperative Safety Highlight features a unique storage cart designed by Clint Patterson, aimed at enhancing safety and efficiency in the workplace.The storage cart, crafted to hold materials and tools for framing poles in the shop, was a collaborative effort with input from various team members. These mobile carts play a crucial role in the organization, with around 90% of poles being framed in the shop before the crew heads out. This...
Ohio Electric Cooperatives Shift Focus to Managing Processes Safely
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 1, 2024
Ohio's electric cooperatives are undergoing a significant transformation in their approach to risk assessment and safety management. In a recent article for RE Magazine, Dwight Miller, a prominent figure in the industry, shared insights on the evolution of risk assessment practices within the cooperative sector.Miller highlighted the shift from traditional safety management programs to a more holistic approach of "managing processes safely." He emphasized the importance of integrating safety as a core value in every aspect of cooperative operations, stating, "In managing...
ELDT (Entry-Level Driver Training) May 2024 Update
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 1, 2024
A total of 15 Ohio lineworkers have completed OEC’s ELDT program and now possess their CDLs, with an unknown speaker expressing, "That’s great news and it now appears to be slowing down a little bit."However, there have been some challenges encountered by two cooperatives in Ohio regarding the free theory course offered by the state, as mentioned by another unidentified speaker, "Please be aware that there have been issues for two cooperatives with the free theory course that the state of Ohio offers, and we had to do a workaround in order to get the students proper...
Central Ohio Lineworker Training Program Prepares for Busy Year in 2024
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 1, 2024
Central Ohio Lineworker Training Program (COLT) is gearing up for a busy year ahead as it continues to provide essential training opportunities for lineworkers. The program's schedule for the year is filled with various educational activities aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of its participants.According to a recent update, COLT has seen enrollment from both apprentices and new hire students. A spokesperson for COLT stated, "This spring, 11 apprentices were enrolled and completed their COLT 1000/1050 classes, and we currently have 13 new hire students scheduled...
Culture of Safety Strategy Lab Update: May 2024
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 1, 2024
In the latest update on the Culture of Safety Strategy Lab for May 2024, various key points were discussed and analyzed. The focus has been on identifying areas for improvement at the statewide level. According to the report, five high-level items have been pinpointed as in need of attention.The first area highlighted is in-house safety meetings or safety discussions, with an estimated current effectiveness of 30%. Incident reporting and analysis follow closely behind, with estimated current reporting at 25% and analysis at 10%. In-house crew observations were noted to...
Safety Throwback - Looking Back at COLT Cohort 3 EUT-1100 from June 2006
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 1, 2024
In this issue’s Safety Throwback, we take a look back at COLT Cohort 3 EUT-1100, their basic underground class in June of 2006. The picture from the class features familiar faces, including Dave Byers from The Energy Cooperative, Chris Host from Carroll Electric Cooperative, Chad Shumaker from Frontier Power Company, Rob Campbell from Carroll Electric Cooperative, Ray Brunner from Butler Rural Electric Cooperative, and Derk Beckett also from Butler Rural Electric Cooperative.According to the information provided, four individuals in the photo are still employed at the...
Pollinator Garden Donation Compliments JCP&L’s Tree Donation Efforts
By Ohio Energy Reporter | May 1, 2024
A new pollinator garden has been established in Monmouth County, providing a safe haven for essential animals and insects crucial to maintaining a healthy ecosystem. The garden, donated by FirstEnergy, was planted at Howell’s Aldrich Elementary School by volunteers from Jersey Central Power & Light’s (JCP&L) Green Team on April 12. The initiative aims to not only support pollinator populations but also serve as an educational resource for the community.Ray Vender, Advanced Forestry Specialist at FirstEnergy and chair of JCP&L’s Green Team, expressed the importance of...
FirstEnergy's Green Team Members Enhance Community Gardens in Western Pennsylvania
By Ohio Energy Reporter | Apr 30, 2024
FirstEnergy’s Green Team recently demonstrated their commitment to environmental stewardship by participating in a community garden revitalization project in Westmoreland County, Pennsylvania. Led by Lucy Bittner, Vice President of Jeanette Greenspaces, the volunteers worked tirelessly to replenish garden plots with fresh topsoil and compost, despite facing challenges like malfunctioning wheelbarrows.Bittner expressed her gratitude, stating, “I can’t thank yinz enough.” She also highlighted the importance of the Green Team's support, especially for those who are no longer...
Growing Participation in RECAP Program Enhances Cybersecurity for Ohio Cooperatives
By Ohio Energy Reporter | Apr 30, 2024
In the latest update of the Rural Electric Cyber Advancement Program (RECAP) for May 2024, it was reported that participation in the program continues to expand. According to the update, there are currently 21 cooperatives that have either completed the assessment or are scheduled to do so in 2024, with a call for all Ohio cooperatives to join in. The focus remains on maximizing the value of the program for members through "Cooperation Among Cooperatives."The assessments conducted in 2023 have unveiled common actionable items for many cooperatives, leading to the...