SaskPower to Examine 97,000 Power Poles for Decay, or Damage
Saskatchewan’s Crown power corporation has allocated $5.8 million to conduct inspections on numerous wooden power poles across the province.
SaskPower has announced that approximately 97,000 power poles will undergo thorough examination and testing to detect any signs of decay, damage, or infestation by carpenter ants. Additionally, the company has plans to evaluate over 8,200 overhead transformer grounds in rural areas of Saskatchewan. Moreover, they aim to install wildlife protection measures on 2,000 power poles situated in regions where animal damage poses a higher risk. These inspections will be carried out without causing any power outages.
Highlighting the significance of maintaining this critical infrastructure for grid reliability, Tim Eckel from SaskPower emphasized the need for routine inspections and maintenance. With over 1.2 million wooden power poles in service across Saskatchewan, ensuring their longevity not only contributes to grid stability but also proves cost-effective. Whenever possible, damaged poles will be repaired or reinforced, but if they cannot be safely fixed, they will be marked for replacement.
To facilitate the inspection process, the utility has instructed the inspection crews to carry identification and wear high-visibility clothing. The majority of the work will be conducted within the SaskPower right-of-way, although occasional access to private property might be necessary.
The inspection and maintenance operations are scheduled to take place between June and October. The districts surrounding Canora, Estevan, Fort Qu’Appelle, Humboldt, La Ronge, Maple Creek, Meadow Lake, Melfort, Moose Jaw, North Battleford, Regina, Swift Current, and Yorkton will be the focus areas during this period.
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