READING, PA — FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Electric Company (FE PA), operating as Met-Ed in southeastern Pennsylvania, has taken a significant step to improve electric service reliability for over 7,000 customers in Lebanon and surrounding townships. The company recently energized a new transformer at its substation near Third and Willow streets in Lebanon, replacing a unit that failed in early June.
John Hawkins, FirstEnergy’s President for Pennsylvania, highlighted the urgency and importance of this upgrade, stating, “Resolving this critical issue was a top priority, and we expect this to strengthen the reliability of electric service provided to our Lebanon customers.” To maintain service during the interim, a mobile substation was utilized until the new transformer was installed and operational by late July.
This installation is crucial as the substation supports Lebanon’s core downtown area through an underground distribution network. The new transformer, measuring 13-feet tall and weighing over 100,000 pounds, was maneuvered into place by a large crane and connected through extensive cabling work conducted by electricians.
Looking ahead, FirstEnergy’s Energize365 program plans further infrastructure investments, including another transformer installation in West Lebanon within the next 18 to 24 months. This multi-year initiative aims to invest $26 billion from 2024 to 2028, focusing on creating a smarter, more secure grid capable of supporting electric vehicles and clean energy sources, thereby ensuring reliable power for the future.
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