Eversource has launched a three-year, $12 million upgrade to Waterbury’s antiquated power system, which includes reconfiguring electric circuits and installing stronger utility poles.
The project began earlier this year and will occur in phases through 2025. The result should be improved reliability for customers in the northside of the city, Eversource said.
This year, Eversource crews will install nearly 150 thicker utility poles; string more than 3 miles of overhead electric lines, including “tree wire,” which can better withstand extreme weather; and add seven reclosers, which are high-voltage circuit breakers that detect and limit power interruptions.
By reconfiguring the electric circuits, Everosurce says it can retire and eventually remove a 65-year-old substation.
Eversource President of Connecticut Electric Operations Steve Sullivan said the project will create several “automatic zones,” which are areas with equipment that can quickly reroute power if there is a problem.
“By continuing to make strategic investments in the system, like these in Waterbury, we’re building a more robust and resilient electric grid that will serve our customers well into the future,” Sullivan said.
The project is underway with crews working Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 2:45 p.m., weather permitting. Roads currently affected include Bishop, Bronson, Burton, Cooke, Pearl, Ridgewood, Waterville and Wyman streets.
The 2023 portion of this project is expected to be finished by the end of August.
