FirstEnergy Corp. reports developments for an investor-owned electric utility holding company with distribution companies in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland and New York and transmission subsidiaries that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions.
Recurring updates cover GAAP and core earnings, distribution and transmission rate-base growth, capital spending for grid reliability, and regulatory proceedings such as Ohio distribution rate plans. Company news also covers projects by American Transmission Systems, Potomac Edison, Ohio Edison, Toledo Edison and The Illuminating Company, including line rebuilds, tree trimming, time-of-use rates, storm restoration and operational leadership changes.
West Penn Power, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy (NYSE: FE), is finalizing inspections and maintenance to ensure reliable electricity delivery during winter. President Scott Wyman emphasized proactive measures to safeguard infrastructure. Key activities include using 'thermovision' cameras for equipment checks, winterizing control buildings, and helicopter inspections of 1,700 miles of transmission lines. The company has trimmed over 3,800 miles of electric lines this year, aiming for 4,800 miles by year-end. These efforts support approximately 725,000 customers in Pennsylvania.
FirstEnergy's Pennsylvania subsidiary, Penelec, is enhancing electric service reliability ahead of winter by completing crucial equipment inspections and maintenance. This proactive approach includes using thermovision cameras for inspecting substations, winterizing control buildings, and conducting helicopter inspections on 2,500 miles of transmission lines. Maintenance also involves trimming 4,200 miles of trees to minimize outages and ensuring utility vehicles are equipped for harsh conditions. Penelec serves about 585,000 customers across northern and central Pennsylvania, emphasizing safety and reliability during cold months.
Potomac Edison, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp (NYSE: FE), is enhancing service reliability as winter approaches. Conducting inspections and maintenance across its Maryland and West Virginia areas, the utility is preparing for challenges posed by winter weather. Key activities include the inspection of substations, the use of thermovision technology for detecting equipment issues, and helicopter inspections of 1,400 miles of transmission lines. The company is also winterizing utility vehicles and performing extensive tree trimming along over 1,670 miles of power lines.
Mon Power, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE), is enhancing power reliability in West Virginia ahead of winter. Key activities include inspections of substations, use of thermovision cameras for detecting equipment issues, and helicopter inspections of transmission lines. The company aims to mitigate potential power outages by addressing reliability issues. Mon Power serves 395,000 customers across 34 counties. These proactive measures are part of their commitment to ensure safe and reliable electricity during cold weather.
Mon Power and Potomac Edison, subsidiaries of FirstEnergy, submitted an application to the Public Service Commission of West Virginia to build five solar projects generating 50 megawatts of renewable energy. This move aligns with a 2020 law allowing utilities to own renewable energy facilities, supporting local economic development. If approved, the projects will begin as early as 2022 and be completed by 2025. Customers would buy energy from these facilities, receiving solar renewable energy credits, funded through a solar surcharge.
FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE:FE) advises customers in Akron, Ohio, on energy efficiency as winter approaches. To manage energy use effectively during cold months, customers can implement several strategies, such as reducing thermostat settings and insulating their homes. These tips aim to help lower heating bills and enhance comfort without solely relying on heating systems. FirstEnergy also offers resources for assistance with high winter bills. The company operates one of the largest investor-owned electric systems in the U.S., serving multiple states with extensive transmission lines.
FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) is urging customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Maryland to assess electric supply deals due to rising fuel costs. The price of natural gas—majorly affecting electricity generation—is expected to remain volatile this winter, potentially increasing customer rates. FirstEnergy emphasizes the importance of shopping for competitive energy suppliers to find suitable plans, which could lead to savings. Customers should consider energy prices, contract terms, and any applicable fees when choosing an energy supplier.
On Nov. 15, 2021, Met-Ed, a subsidiary of FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE), completed its annual emergency preparation drill aimed at enhancing its storm restoration processes. The drill simulated severe thunderstorms and a tornado in Pennsylvania, involving over 30 employees across various departments. Objectives included training new staff, refining restoration processes, and identifying operational gaps. Met-Ed emphasized its commitment to reliability and safety as it serves approximately 580,000 customers in southeastern Pennsylvania.
FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) donated 1,000 trees to Watters Smith Memorial State Park, marking its largest single-location planting effort. This initiative is part of the company’s sustainability program, having planted over 15,650 trees across six states since April. The event involved more than 30 Mon Power volunteers and aims to enhance natural resources and promote environmental stewardship. This effort aligns with FirstEnergy's commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and supporting responsible natural resource management.
FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) has chosen South Euclid, Ohio, as the recipient of a festive light display through its 'Light Up Holiday Smiles' program, aiming to enhance community spirit during the holiday season. The display will be unveiled at a park lighting ceremony on December 1, 2021. South Euclid was selected from 16 applicants based on its commitment to diversity, equity, and community support. The program underscores FirstEnergy's dedication to uplifting economically challenged communities and fostering a sense of togetherness.