News Releases

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (October 21, 2026) – Rhode Island Energy (RIE) is continuing to invest in its electric transmission system, carrying out a major $8.2 million infrastructure upgrade in Middletown designed to enhance reliability, strengthen the grid, and support long-term service and safety for customers.

As part of its ongoing Wood Pole Replacement Program, RIE is replacing 65 aging wooden transmission structures with modern steel monopoles. While wood poles have historically served the electric system well, older wood structures are more susceptible to deterioration and premature failure over time. Replacing wooden poles with steel monopoles provides a stronger, more durable solution that helps reduce the risk of outages and supports reliable electric service for customers. By upgrading aging transmission infrastructure, RIE is improving system reliability, extending the life of critical electric assets, and reducing long-term maintenance requirements.

"Investing in our transmission infrastructure is essential to delivering safe and reliable electric service for our customers," said Joe Curley, Vice President of Electric Operations at RIE. "By proactively replacing aging assets with more resilient infrastructure, we're strengthening the electric grid and improving system reliability for the communities we serve."

In addition to installing new steel structures, RIE will also be replacing aging porcelain insulators and addressing other equipment components as needed to improve overall system performance and reliability. The pole replacement project also incorporates measures designed to protect local wildlife and reduce the likelihood of bird-related outages. New transmission structures will be equipped with avian guards to discourage birds nesting on utility equipment, helping protect osprey populations.

This project began in 2025 and is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

About Rhode Island Energy 

Rhode Island Energy provides essential energy services to over 770,000 customers across Rhode Island through the delivery of electricity and natural gas. Our team of more than 1,300 employees is dedicated to helping Rhode Island customers and communities thrive, while supporting the transition to a cleaner energy future. Rhode Island Energy is part of the PPL Corporation (NYSE: PPL) family of companies addressing energy challenges head-on by building smarter, more resilient, and more dynamic power grids and advancing sustainable energy solutions.  

For more information visit www.RIEnergy.com and stay connected on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and X.