About $6.1 million in electric distribution system improvements is budgeted for 2023. The plans will improve roughly 50 miles of power lines.
As a not-for-profit utility, Dawson PPD reinvests in its system annually to ensure safe and reliable electricity.
The budget was approved at the December board meeting. Project funding is derived from previous annual sales and long-term bonds. All projects are evaluated on safety, reliability and system loading.
Construction projects are divided into three categories:
Aging distribution replacement
These power lines carry electricity to customer homes, farms and businesses. Aging distribution describes power lines that have been in place for more than 50 years, including original equipment from the early 1940s. These lines are in need of complete replacement to ensure safety and reliability. Between 20 to 30 miles are budgeted to be replaced each year.
Distribution upgrades
These power lines are located on the side of the road and provide power to homes, farms and businesses. The plans include projects scheduled as part of a multi-year plan and divides large projects into smaller, more manageable parts.
Transmission line & substation upgrades
The third category represents Dawson PPD’s need to increase its capacity for power at substations and on distribution and transmission lines. Transmission lines carry power between substations. A substation is a point where electricity is sent into the distribution system so it can be delivered to customers.
OTHER NEWS
Energizing education within the classroom
On the surface, it wouldn’t seem that public power and a classroom are a good fit. What could an electric utility teach students, anyway? But peering in over the edge, it becomes clear: energy education. “Public power utilities can offer schools creative learning...
Between the lines: Seeing both sides
By Gwen Kautz, Dawson PPD General Manager gkautz (at) dawsonpower.com 308-324-2386 Recently, I attended a meeting sponsored by an organization in which I’ve carried a love-hate relationship with for several years. I love their mission, but hate their approach. Their...
Growing rural Nebraska
Growing rural Nebraska isn’t easy. Businesses, like cafes, grocery stores and electricians, are closing and taking their families with them. Fortunately, there are local leaders willing to roll up their sleeves and work hard to nurture their businesses and...