Why the Upgrade?
Much of the existing infrastructure in this area dates back to the 1960s, relying on outdated 5kV open wire systems that are increasingly prone to outages and wear. By transitioning to
13.8kV and installing new, insulated Hendrix wiring, SELCO is strengthening our network against weather-related issues and upgrading to a more robust and efficient system. This effort aligns with improving our distribution system and enhancing the long-term reliability of Shrewsbury’s power supply.
Project Benefits
- Greater Reliability: The new 13.8kV system offers more connection points and options for rerouting power. This increased flexibility means SELCO can switch loads between circuits or substations, enabling maintenance to be performed without service interruptions or with significantly reduced outage times.
- Improved Resiliency: The project replaces outdated open wire with stronger, insulated Hendrix cable, which is less susceptible to damage from trees and storms. This change will reduce the frequency and impact of outages, making our network more resilient in severe weather conditions.
- Future-Ready System: Upgrading from 5kV to 13.8kV increases our load-carrying capacity, preparing Shrewsbury for future demand growth, including the anticipated rise in electric vehicles and other electrification initiatives. This transition is an investment in a sustainable, modern energy future for our community.
What to Expect During the Transition
As part of the project, 45 poles on Crescent Street will be upgraded from 35/40 ft to 45 ft, while crews replace over 16,500 ft of old primary open wire with new Hendrix cable. Additionally, 52,800 ft of open wire secondary will be removed and replaced with 17,600 ft of more durable triplex wiring. To ensure continuous service during the upgrade, new poles are being installed next to existing ones, with both the old 5kV and new 13.8kV systems temporarily running in parallel.
The work will be phased, starting from the furthest parts of the circuits and working back toward the substation. This approach allows SELCO to maintain power while upgrading the infrastructure, with the goal of minimizing any disruptions to electric service.