News Summary
Rhode Island Energy is upgrading the electrical infrastructure in Newport’s Long Wharf area as part of a $128 million capital improvement plan. This initiative includes installing new underground electric cables to enhance the power supply, particularly for the sewage pump station, and modernizing existing electrical feeders. These upgrades aim to improve reliability, support local businesses, and prepare the area for future growth. Newport City Council has expressed support for these necessary enhancements, which align with broader modernization trends among utility companies across the nation.
Rhode Island – Rhode Island Energy has initiated significant upgrades to the electrical infrastructure in Newport’s Long Wharf area as part of the city’s comprehensive $128 million capital improvement plan. The ongoing work aims to modernize the electric system serving this vital area and enhance its overall reliability.
The upgrades primarily focus on the installation of new underground electric cables that will bolster the power supply to the city’s sewage pump station, effectively increasing supply voltage. This move is expected to support an increase in electric load, particularly in the Long Wharf and America’s Cup Avenue areas, which are critical to both residents and local businesses.
As part of the project, Rhode Island Energy is also upgrading and extending existing electrical feeders throughout the Long Wharf area. The underground installation of these cables will occur beneath roadways and is designed to link with existing infrastructure beyond Long Wharf, further integrating the electrical supply network.
The interconnected design of the new electrical infrastructure is crucial, as it aims to improve outage restoration times and enhance the overall reliability of the system. These enhancements are particularly important for maintaining consistent service, especially given Newport’s reliance on its electrical grid for a variety of daily functions and activities.
Newport City Council Chair Charlie Holder has expressed support for the infrastructure upgrades, highlighting their importance in modernizing the city’s electric framework. The advancements are expected to significantly increase electric capacity and reliability, ensuring that Newport can meet future demands and challenges in terms of energy consumption.
Rhode Island Energy serves over 770,000 customers across the state. As a subsidiary of PPL Corporation, the company plays a critical role in maintaining and enhancing the electrical systems that support everyday life for many Rhode Islanders. With more than 1,300 employees statewide, Rhode Island Energy is committed to providing reliable service amid ongoing upgrades and enhancements to its electrical infrastructure.
The Long Wharf area, known for its picturesque waterfront and bustling commercial activities, is a focal point for tourism and local businesses in Newport. Improving the electrical infrastructure not only aims to meet existing demands but is also a proactive step in preparing for future growth in the area. This ongoing project represents a significant investment in Newport’s infrastructure, indicating a forward-looking approach to urban development and public service.
The current upgrades are part of a broader trend among utility companies across the country, focusing on modernization efforts to create a more resilient power grid. These infrastructure improvements are timely, aligning with the increasing demand for electricity and the commitment to sustainable energy practices.
As the upgrades to the Long Wharf area progress, residents and local businesses can expect enhanced service reliability and improved capacity, which will be vital as Newport continues to develop and adapt to the needs of its community. Rhode Island Energy’s commitment to these enhancements reflects an understanding of the interconnectedness of energy systems and the importance of reliable service in supporting local economies.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- NewportRI: Energy Upgrades
- Wikipedia: Electricity in the United States
- What’s Up Newport: RI Energy Upgrades
- Google Search: Electric Infrastructure
- MarketScreener: RI Energy Infrastructure
- Google Scholar: Energy Upgrades
- Providence Journal: RI Electric Rates
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Infrastructure
- ABC6: Aerial Inspections of Infrastructure
- Google News: Rhode Island Energy
Author: STAFF HERE PROVIDENCE WRITER
PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER The PROVIDENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREProvidence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Providence, Providence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as WaterFire, Rhode Island International Film Festival, and Rhode Island Comic Con. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce and Providence Warwick Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in finance and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Citizens Financial Group and Textron. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Rhode Island's dynamic landscape.
