Storm & Outage Center
When people think of utility employees, repairing poles and stringing wires often come to mind. Those lineworkers certainly are key in helping the utility deliver safe, reliable and affordable power to homes and businesses. But behind the scenes, many other employees play a critical role in this process, including right-of-way professionals.
ROW professionals are indispensable in the maintenance and expansion of power infrastructure as they secure and protect pathways for power lines and facilities. EMEPA joins others around the country June 10-16 in celebrating and thanking them during National Right-of-Way Professionals Week.
With extensive networks of transmission and distribution lines, electric utilities rely heavily on ROW professionals to keep the lines clear of branches and vegetation, negotiate with stakeholders to acquire infrastructure easements and, when necessary, mitigate potential conflicts when property owners encroach on these easements.
To be successful, those working with the right-of-way must possess a blend of skills, critical thinking and experience, along with attention to detail. Because they work near high-voltage equipment, they also must commit to stringent safety standards and continuous training. What’s more, they play a critical role in power restoration.
Stuart Ingram, tree trimmer foreman in Louisville, said he and his crew are part of the larger EMEPA team monitoring more than 5,700 miles of line serving nearly 38,000 meters around the multi-county system. Trimmers frequently work at heights over 100 feet, using ropes and specialized equipment to get the job done.
“When storms hit and the power goes out, we get to work as soon as it is safe to do so,” said Ingram. “We’re among the first ones out there, removing branches and trees so our linemen can safely and quickly make repairs.”
While jumping into action is crucial to the restoration process, day-to-day management is important for a well-maintained system overall. As part of effective and efficient practices focused on proper tree trimming and brush control, EMEPA crews follow guidelines set by the American National Standards Institute that are designed to enhance tree health.
National Right-of-Way Professionals Week is celebrated every year in the second week of June. Please join us in recognizing our valued ROW crews who help keep the lights on for our members.