OHIO -- AEP Ohio is planning to upgrade the electric transmission grid in the north-western counties through the Dunkirk-Berwick Area Improvements Project.
The Dunkirk-Berwick Area Improvements Project involves:
Upgrading about 25 miles of 34.5 kV transmission line to 69 kV standards
Building 10 miles of 69 kV power line
Building substations in Dunkirk, Arlington, and Carey
The project is expected to improve the power supply for customers in Hardin, Hancock, Wyandot, and Seneca counties.
The 25 miles of power line to be rebuilt are located primarily in the company's current right of way. Improvements to the nearly 100-year-old power line are expected to help reduce the likelihood of larger power outages.
AEP representatives are evaluating route options for the new 10-mile power line and seeking public input to help determine a final power line route.
Construction is expected to begin in fall 2022 and conclude in fall 2025.