Stronger, More Reliable Power Coming to Trumbull and Ashtabula Counties

Rhea-AI Summary

FirstEnergy (NYSE: FE) said an 11.5-mile high-voltage transmission line in Trumbull and Ashtabula counties will be energized by the end of October 2025, after construction that began in 2023.

The $19 million rebuild installed nearly 140 new steel structures, thicker conductors and stronger foundations to reduce outages, speed restorations and allow easier rerouting during disruptions. The project affects nearly 10,000 residents and businesses and is part of the company’s $28 billion Energize365 grid-modernization program for 2025–2029.

Positive

• Rebuilt 11.5-mile high-voltage transmission line
• Project cost: $19 million
• Benefits nearly 10,000 residents and businesses
• Installed nearly 140 new steel structures

Negative

• Adds to capital deployment under the $28 billion Energize365 program

Upgraded power line expected to be energized by the end of this month

AKRON, Ohio, Oct. 23, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly 10,000 residents and businesses in rural Trumbull and Ashtabula counties will soon experience improved electric service as a major grid upgrade nears completion in northeast Ohio.

American Transmission Systems, Inc. (ATSI), a FirstEnergy (NYSE: FE) company, has rebuilt an 11.5-mile high-voltage transmission line to reduce outages and speed up restoration times when service is disrupted.

Built to Withstand the Elements
The project replaces aging infrastructure with stronger poles and thicker wires capable of carrying more electricity. Nearly 140 new steel structures were installed, many anchored in deep concrete foundations to better withstand severe weather and vehicle accidents. This is especially important in open fields, where one fallen pole can knock down others like dominos, causing bigger outages.

The upgraded line will also connect with existing lines, allowing power to be rerouted more easily during outages and minimizing service disruptions.

Mark Mroczynski, President of Transmission for FirstEnergy: "We know how frustrating power outages can be, especially in rural areas where repairs can take longer. This project is all about helping to keep the electricity flowing reliably during uncontrollable events like severe weather or car accidents and making life a little easier for our customers."

Construction began in 2023, and the line is expected to be energized by the end of this month.

View or download a video series on "Why a Modern Transmission System Matters to You" on FirstEnergy's YouTube channel.

Part of a Bigger Investment in Reliability
This nearly $19 million project is part of Energize365, FirstEnergy's $28 billion investment program to modernize the electric grid across the footprint between 2025 and 2029. The goal: a smarter, more secure grid that meets the needs of today's customers and tomorrow's growth.

FirstEnergy is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability and operational excellence. Its electric distribution companies form one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems, serving more than six million customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland and New York. The company's transmission subsidiaries operate approximately 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. Follow FirstEnergy on X @FirstEnergyCorp or online at firstenergycorp.com. 

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SOURCE FirstEnergy Corp.

FAQ

When will FirstEnergy (FE) energize the upgraded Trumbull/Ashtabula line?

The company expects the line to be energized by the end of October 2025.

How many customers will benefit from FirstEnergy (FE) transmission upgrade in Trumbull and Ashtabula?

The project will affect nearly 10,000 residents and businesses in the two counties.

What is the size and cost of the transmission project announced by FirstEnergy (FE)?

The rebuild covers 11.5 miles and cost nearly $19 million.

How does the Trumbull/Ashtabula project fit into FirstEnergy's (FE) wider plans?

It is part of the $28 billion Energize365 grid-modernization program for 2025–2029.

What reliability features were added to the new FirstEnergy (FE) transmission line?

The upgrade added thicker conductors, stronger poles and deep concrete foundations and rerouting connections to reduce outages.

When did construction on the FirstEnergy (FE) transmission rebuild begin?

Construction began in 2023.