Rochester Gas and Electric (RG&E) will begin work this month on a major transmission project spanning the Rochester area. The upgrades, approved recently by the New York Public Service Commission, will strengthen reliability for more than 65,000 residents in the City of Rochester and the Town of Gates.
RG&E will install a new 6.7-mile transmission line and reconstruct three existing transmission line segments. This will expand electrical transmission capacity and improve efficiency. Work will also include replacing poles, insulators, surge protectors, and other electrical components.
"This state-of-the-art transmission system will benefit our customers tremendously," said RG&E President Al Langland. "A more resilient infrastructure reduces failures caused by storms, motor vehicle accidents, or wear and tear, resulting in fewer power outages and greater service continuity."
Reconstructing lines and updating equipment allows for more stable and efficient electrical service. It also allows for managing increased energy demand in the future.
Work will begin at Substation 418 in the Town of Gates, where crews will install a new 115kV bay - that's where the transmission line connects to the substation. Crews will also relocate existing lines. Next, crews will install a new 115kV bay and circuit breaker at Substation 48 in the City of Rochester. A 115 kV transmission line will extend approximately 6.7 miles, connecting the two substations from Gates to the city.
"This project is truly a blessing for our Gates community. With RG&E's commitment and the approval from the New York Public Service Commission, thousands of our friends, neighbors, and families will benefit from more reliable power," said Gates Town Supervisor Cosmo Giunta. "It's more than just an upgrade it's a promise to protect our community's safety, comfort, and future. We're proud to support this important step toward a stronger, more resilient Gates."
"A safe, reliable, and affordable power supply is vital to the health and safety of Rochester's residents and the success of our employers," said Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans. "I am pleased to see RG&E make these critical investments in its transmission lines, which will reduce outages, minimize business interruptions, and create good-paying jobs in the construction trades. By strengthening and modernizing its grid, RG&E is helping us realize Rochester's full potential by serving and investing in all of its people."
"This $125 million investment is about more than poles and wires it's about safer homes, stronger neighborhoods, and peace of mind for Rochester families during weather events," said Rochester City Council President Miguel Melendez. "Strengthening our grid ensures that every resident can count on reliable service today and for years to come."
The project includes the installation of 128 new steel poles. This modern improvement over traditional wood or concrete systems supports higher loads and is more durable, making it more resistant to high winds, ice buildup, and pest damage, reducing the likelihood of power outages due to pole failure.
The $125M project received approval by the New York Public Service Commission and is part of the Company's commitment to strengthen and modernize the grid, providing customers with reliable service for today and the future. The project is scheduled to be completed in 2028.
Media Contact:
Alexis Arnold
alexis.arnold@avangrid.com
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