Big Upgrades Completed to Meet Future Energy Demands in Western Pennsylvania

Core Insights - FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Electric Company (FE PA), operating as West Penn Power, has completed significant upgrades to its power grid, enhancing reliability and resilience for approximately 2,300 customers in Unity and Hempfield townships [1][2][4]. Investment and Infrastructure - The upgrades are part of a $368 million investment under the Long Term Infrastructure Improvement Plan (LTIIP) III, aimed at improving electric system reliability in West Penn Power's service area [7]. - This initiative is part of FirstEnergy's broader $28 billion investment program, Energize365, which focuses on modernizing the electric grid from 2025 to 2029 [7]. Technical Enhancements - A one-mile section of the grid has been upgraded with larger wires, new utility poles, crossarms, and transformers, which will help reduce outages and support local growth [3][9]. - The project also includes tree trimming to minimize outage risks and the installation of a manual switch to facilitate quicker repairs [9]. Community Impact - Residents in several housing developments, including Jamell Acres and Timbercrest, will benefit from the upgrades, which also support around 1,500 customers in the West Point and Eastgate areas of Hempfield Township [4][8].