In the Sykesville area, BGE crews are taking on a challenging project—replacing aging wooden transmission poles with modern fiberglass poles along one of our 110 kV lines. It’s not just about swapping materials; it’s about making smart upgrades that help keep power flowing to homes and businesses. Wooden poles have served us well for decades, but in remote areas, they face unique challenges. Wildlife, especially woodpeckers, often damage the poles by drilling holes, which weakens their structure over time. Fiberglass poles solve that problem. They’re more durable, resistant to wildlife damage, and built to last longer, reducing the need for repairs and minimizing disruptions for customers.
The work isn’t easy. These poles range from 65 to 85 feet tall, and the terrain in this area is steep and rugged. Crews have had to build pads just to position trucks safely and navigate hills that make moving heavy equipment a real challenge. Despite these obstacles, the team pushes forward because every upgrade strengthens the system and improves reliability.
For customers, these improvements mean fewer interruptions and a stronger system that can better withstand the elements. While no system is immune to severe weather, projects like this help reduce vulnerabilities and keep energy service dependable. At BGE, we’re focused on practical solutions that make a real difference for the communities we serve.
