With a rich history dating back to the late 40s and early 50s, Wheat Belt service area boasts a legacy infrastructure that has powered communities for decades. However, in the face of evolving technological and safety standards, the Wheat Belt team recognizes the need for continuous improvement to meet the growing demands of the modern era.
Wheat Belt’s commitment to providing safe and reliable electricity is manifested through a four-year work plan that sets the stage for upgrades and improvements across the electrical system. Collaborating closely with an electrical engineering firm, Wheat Belt undertakes a comprehensive analysis to identify priority projects that target crucial components of the aging infrastructure.
One of the significant challenges faced by Wheat Belt is the presence of original poles and wires from the late 40s and early 50s. Recognizing the need for a proactive approach, Wheat Belt in consultation with their engineering partners designates lines and transformers for strategic upgrades. These upgrades are imperative to mitigate risks associated with outages, inadequate voltage, and other potential factors that may compromise the reliability of the electrical system.
To execute the identified priority projects, Wheat Belt has enlisted the support of experienced contractors specializing in electrical infrastructure upgrades. Currently, in the Chappell area, major construction upgrades are underway, focusing on the reconductoring and rebuilding of transmission lines that have historically been the source of major outages.
Looking ahead to 2024, Wheat Belt has outlined an ambitious set of projects aimed at modernizing and fortifying the electrical system. Some key initiatives include:
1. Greenwood Substation Upgrades: Replacement of two miles of conductor and poles to enhance the overall capacity and efficiency of the Greenwood substation.
2. Recloser Replacement: Phasing out aging and outdated reclosers in substations to improve reliability and response times during disruptions.
3. Votech Substation Upgrades: Replacement of six miles of transmission/distribution line to improve reliability.
4. Capacitor Bank Relocation: Strategic relocation of capacitor banks to optimize line voltage and enhance system efficiency.
5. Copper Line Replacement: Commitment to replacing five miles of aging copper line and poles annually, ensuring a steady progression towards a more robust electrical infrastructure.
As Wheat Belt progresses into the future, the dedication to maintaining and updating the electrical system remains unwavering. The ongoing collaboration with an electrical engineering firm and the strategic execution of priority projects underscore Wheat Belt’s commitment to providing customers with safe, reliable, and efficient electricity. By embracing innovation and proactively addressing the challenges of an aging infrastructure, Wheat Belt is ensuring the lights stay on for generations to come.