69kV Statewide Initiative

Public Service Electric & Gas Co. (PSE&G), New Jersey’s largest utility, is committed to delivering safe, reliable electric service to its customers. Maintaining world-class reliability requires an electric infrastructure that can keep pace with customers’ evolving energy needs. Over the last several decades, New Jersey has experienced tremendous commercial and residential growth. As businesses and residents use more electricity, it is our responsibility to reinforce, upgrade, and in many cases replace, our electric transmission infrastructure to keep up with that demand.

In order to meet existing electric needs, and be better prepared for Sandy-like storms, PSE&G is re-wiring its local power system to create the electric infrastructure of the future by increasing system capacity, enhancing system reliability, and providing greater system redundancy for our customers.

PSE&G is investing approximately $1.28 billion over the next three years [see Forward Looking statement] to replace and/or supplement its 50-plus-year-old 26kV lines to bring 69kV power throughout the state.  These projects are done either within existing substations and switching stations, or through the construction of new stations, and include installing and replacing overhead lines. The enhanced power lines will be carried on taller, sturdier replacement poles along existing routes.

Spanning from 2007 through 2014, PSE&G has installed approximately 209 miles of 69kV lines in more than 60 New Jersey municipalities, to ensure that the people of New Jersey have the power they need when they need it today and for decades to come.

For more information on this project, please contact:
Kevin M. Kimbo
1-800-901-5035
Kevin Kimbo
1-800-606-0045

For media inquiries regarding this project, please contact:

PSE&G's Media Hotline
973-430-7734
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    1. What is 69kV transmission?
    2. What will these projects do?
    3. Why are these upgrades needed?
    4. What type of construction will these projects entail?
    5. How tall will the replacement poles be?
    6. What is the difference between the existing and new line voltage?
    7. How long will construction last?
    8. How will this impact traffic?
    9. What are the benefits to the region?
    10. What approvals are you seeking?
    11. Do the lines produce electric and magnetic fields?
    12. Are electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) harmful?
    13. Who can I contact for more information?

    What is 69kV Transmission?

    69kV transmission lines are the standard of the 21st century, linking higher voltage lines with switching stations and substations. They will ultimately replace and enhance a 50+ year-old system built on 26kV lines, increasing reliability, capacity, and safety.

    What will these projects do?

    PSE&G is currently improving its electric reliability statewide in-order to upgrade its utility infrastructure. PSE&G infrastructure upgrades include the addition of a 69kV network that will alleviate the demand on the existing 26kV network. These upgrades will increase both electric service reliability and system redundancy to ensure safe and reliable electric service to our customers.

    Why are these upgrades needed?

    These upgrades are needed to address the increased demand for reliable electricity throughout PSE&G service territory. As population has increased and consumer electronic needs have evolved, the 26kV legacy networks of the last century have been taxed. The addition of a 69kV network will alleviate the demands on the existing 26kV network.

    What type of construction will these projects entail?

    These projects will install 69kV circuits connecting stations to each other. Underground and Overhead pole line construction is taking place throughout the state. New 69kV circuits are being installed to connect each upgraded station and existing utility poles will be replaced with taller sturdier poles that combine existing 26kV, 13kV, or 4kV circuits. New 69kV Gas Insulator Switchgear (GIS) will also be installed at various stations in multiple municipalities.

    How tall will the replacement poles be?

    The replacement poles will range in height between 57 and 65 feet.

    What is the difference between the existing and new line voltage?

    Existing pole lines throughout the state carry 4kV, 13kV and/or 26kV lines. The new pole lines will carry these existing lines in addition to a new 69kV line for added reliability and capacity.

    How long will construction last?

    As of December 17, 2014 PSE&G has augmented or replaced approximately 209 miles of its 26kV network with 69kV lines in several New Jersey municipalities, all in an effort to ensure that the people of New Jersey have the power they need when they need it. Continued substation and pole line construction is currently scheduled through 2021.

    How will this impact traffic?

    Traffic may be slightly impacted during construction; however PSE&G will work with municipal safety and traffic departments to minimize any traffic issues that arise during construction.

    Safety of the public and construction crews is our highest priority. During construction, it is essential that you and anyone occupying your property, including children and pets, refrain from going near our construction work zones.

    What are the benefits to the region?

    This project will provide safe, highly reliable service.  It will also create construction jobs, and provide municipal revenue though requisite permits. The enhanced electrical infrastructure will help support regional economic growth.

    What approvals are you seeking?

    PSE&G will secure necessary permits and approvals from local governing authorities wherever construction is taking place, as well as the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and other applicable state agencies.

    Do the lines produce electric and magnetic fields?

    Electric and magnetic fields are present wherever there is a flow of electric current, whether in wires in the home, electrical appliances, or power lines. Electric fields are produced by the voltage or electrical pressure in a wire and are present even if an appliance is turned off, as long as it is connected to a source of electric power. Magnetic fields are produced whenever there is a flow of electric current through a wire. Electric and magnetic fields are not visible, like other fields such as a gravitational field or a temperature field.

    Are electric and magnetic fields (EMFs) harmful?

    The overwhelming body of scientific study shows no definitive link between EMF and human health issues. Since 1977, concerns over magnetic fields and possible health effects have been the subject of numerous scientific and regulatory review panels, and extensive research and studies continue to be funded in this field of study.

    After nearly 30 years of worldwide research, there are no direct or causal links between electric and magnetic fields and adverse health effects. New Jersey has standards regarding maximum permissible electric fields at the edge of transmission line rights of way. However, there are no state standards with regards to magnetic field levels nor are there any federal rules, regulations or standards for either electric or magnetic field levels.

    Magnetic fields from appliances like hair dryers, microwave ovens, and motorized appliances are often stronger than the fields directly beneath power lines. PSE&G will design and install this line according to appropriate state and federal guidelines related to safety and environmental impact.

    Learn more about EMF 

    Who can I contact for more information?

    If you have questions or concerns, please visit our website at http://psegtransmission.com/reliability-projects/69kV or call our toll free number at 1-800-901-5035 (for Bergen, Passaic, Hudson, Essex, Morris, Somerset, Union, Hunterdon and Middlesex counties) or 1-800-606-0045 (for Mercer, Burlington, Camden or Gloucester counties).

Middlesex
February 17 - March 17

PSE&G and our approved contractors plan to begin tree trimming work, in accordance with the Board of Public Utilities Vegetation Management Rules, along Route 28 between Green Brook Road and East Union Avenue on or about the week of Monday, February 17, 2017 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, as well as some weekend work, as needed.

Safety is our highest priority. PSE&G is working with the Borough of Middlesex Police Department to minimize any traffic concerns or inconvenience to the public. It is essential that you and anyone using your property, including children and pets, refrain from going near our construction work zones. For construction activities in and on the public right of way, local authorities will provide traffic control to keep both our work crews and the traveling public safe.

Bound Brook
April 17 - May 17

PSE&G plans to begin upgrading and replacing utility poles along Route 28 between East Union Ave and Tea Street, and continue working down Tea Street. This will begin on or about the week of Monday, April 17, 2017 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, as well as some weekend work, as needed. This work should take approximately 3-4 weeks to complete, however all schedules are weather dependent and subject to change. 

Safety is our highest priority. PSE&G will work with the Bound Brook Police Department to minimize any traffic concerns or inconvenience to the public. It is essential that you and anyone using your property, including children and pets, refrain from going near our construction work zones. For construction activities in and on the public right of way, local authorities will provide traffic control to keep both our work crews and the traveling public safe.

Bridgewater
February 17 - April 14

PSE&G plans to begin work tree trimming work, in accordance with the Board of Public Utilities Vegetation Management Rules, along Main St (County Road 533) between Tea Street and Polhemus Lane in Bridgewater Township. This will begin on or about the week of Monday, February 17, 2017 between 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, as well as some weekend work, as needed. This project is expected to be complete by the 4th quarter of 2017, weather permitting.

Safety is our highest priority. PSE&G is working with the Bridgewater Police Department to minimize any traffic concerns or inconvenience to the public. It is essential that you and anyone using your property, including children and pets, refrain from going near our construction work zones. For construction activities in and on the public right of way, local authorities will provide traffic control to keep both our work crews and the traveling public safe.

Dunellen
Mid-April 2017

As part of our upgrade of electric facilities in your area, PSE&G and our approved contractors will begin tree trimming, followed by utility pole upgrades in Dunellen.

Activity is expected to begin on or about the week of Monday, April 10, PSE&G plans to begin work on the following streets: Madison Ave, Mountain View Terrace, North Washington Ave, and Dunellen Ave. 

Work will primarily be completed Monday-Friday, between 7:30 a.m - 4:30 p.m., occasional weekend work may be required.

Safety is our highest priority. PSE&G will work with the Dunellen Police Department to minimize any traffic concerns or inconvenience to the public.

Ewing
On-Going

Beginning March 2015 and continuing intermittently through Q4 2018, construction work in support of the 69kV upgrades will occur on the following streets in Ewing and Hamilton Township:

  • Federal City Road
  • Upper Ferry Road
  • Scotch Road
  • Parkway Ave
  • N. Olden Ave
  • Arctic Parkway
  • Spruce St
  • Princeton Ave
  • Mulberry St
  • Nottingham Way
  • Rosalie Ave

Work includes installing new poles, installing new 69kV cable and critical electrical equipment, and removal of old poles (please also reference the "Overhead Construction Process" page for additional information). 

Safety is our primary concern. PSE&G will work with the Ewing Police Department to minimize any traffic concerns or inconveniences to the public. During construction, please refrain from going near our construction work zones.

 

Franklin
January 1, 2017 through February 28, 2017

Beginning on or around December 14 and continuing through the end of February 2017, PSE&G crews will begin underground construction activity on Bennetts Lane outside of Dahmer Road. This work will require closures to thru traffic, access will only be given to local traffic during work hours. Work will only be completed Monday-Saturday, and local police will be on-site during all construction activity.

Excluding inclement weather delays, PSE&G anticipates working Monday through Saturday (8:00AM - 4:30PM). Limited lane or road closures will occur during working hours.

Safety is our primary concern. PSE&G will coordinate all road closures and detours with the Franklin Township Police Department to minimize traffic concerns and ensure the safety of the public and crews. During construction, please refrain from going near our construction work zones. 

Green Brook
April 10, 2017 - May 10, 2017

Civil and Electrical Construction activity inside Green Brook Substation and adjacent pool building property is ongoing.

Beginning on or around April 10, 2017, PSE&G and approved contractors will begin tree trimming on Green Brook Road and Madison Avenue 

All work schedules are weather dependent and subject to change based on construction conditions. 

Hamilton
January 1, 2017 through May 26, 2017

Vegetation management activity, pole setting, wire work and equipment transfer will take place intermittently through May on the following streets in Hamilton Township:

  • S. Clinton Ave. 
  • White Horse Mercerville Rd.
  • Klockner Rd.
  • Cedar Lane
  • Newkirk Ave
  • Liberty Street
  • Hamilton Avenue
  • Sam Naples Road
  • Nottingham Way
  • Rosalie Ave

Work includes installing new poles, installing new 69kV cable and critical electrical equipment, and removal of old poles (please also reference the "Overhead Construction Process" page for additional information). 

Safety is our primary concern. PSE&G will work with the Ewing and Hamilton Police Departments to minimize any traffic concerns or inconveniences to the public. During construction, please refrain from going near our construction work zones.

Jersey City
May 15, 2017 through May 26, 2017

Duncan Avenue (near 550 Duncan Avenue)

Pipe hammering and welding activity will occur during working hours. 

Excluding inclement weather delays, PSE&G anticipates working Monday through Friday (7:00am - 5:00pm).

Safety is our primary concern. PSE&G will work with the Hudson County Sheriff's Department to minimize any traffic concerns or inconveniences to the public. During construction, please refrain from going near our construction work zones.

North Bergen
Spring 2017

Union City Substation

GIS Building work and other construction activities will occur within the station fence line. 

Excluding inclement weather delays and the need for extended hours, PSE&G anticipates working Monday through Friday (7:00am - 6:00pm) and Saturday (10:00am - 6:00pm). Limited road closures may occur and parking restrictions will be in effect during large deliveries. 

Tonnelle Avenue Substation

Electrical and civil construction activity will occur within the station fence line. 

Excluding inclement weather delays, PSE&G anticipates working Monday through Friday (7:00am - 6:00pm) and Saturday (10:00am - 6:00pm).

Safety is our primary concern. PSE&G will work with the North Bergen Police Department to minimize any traffic concerns or inconveniences to the public. During construction, please refrain from going near our construction work zones.

North Brunswick
January 31 - March 31

Beginning on or about January 31, the installation of the new utility poles and overhead power lines will begin on Cozzens Lane in North Brunswick Township. Overhead construction activity will continue, intermittently, on Cozzens Lane through April 2017. Overhead construction activity will occur predominately Monday-Saturday, between 8:00 a.m. through 4:30 p.m. Some extended work hours may be required. 

All schedules are subject to change due to weather, material availability, and unexpected constructability delays. 

South Brunswick
May 18 - August 18

Beginning on or about May 18, the installation of new utility poles and overhead power lines will begin on Deans Lane in South Brunswick Township. Overhead construction activity will continue, intermittently, on Deans Lane through August 2017. Overhead construction activity will occur predominately Monday-Saturday, between 8:00 a.m. through 4:30 p.m. Some extended work hours may be required. 

Safety is our primary concern. PSE&G will work with the South Brunswick Police Department to minimize any traffic concerns and inconvenience to the public. During construction, please refrain from going near our construction work zones.  

Trenton
November 14 - 17

Beginning on or around November 14 2016, PSE&G and our approved contractors will begin tree trimming along PSE&G property in front of our Lawrence Substation on Bunker Hill in Trenton, NJ. This work is estimated to last 3-4 days, weather dependent. 

Safety is our primary concern. To complete this work safely, PSE&G will work with the Trenton Police Department to minimize any traffic concerns or inconvenience to the public when necessary. Please refrain from going on or near our construction sites and the demolition area, and also ensure that all pets and children kept a safe distance from the PSE&G work zone. 
August 27, 2014

Rutgers Study: PSE&G is an Economic Engine for New Jersey
Transmission upgrades responsible for creating 6,000 jobs annually from 2011-2021

(Newark, NJ – August 27, 2014) – From 2011 to 2021, Public Service Electric and Gas Company (PSE&G) investments in New Jersey’s electric transmission network will be a powerful stimulant of the state’s economy, according to an analysis by Rutgers University. The report, released today, concludes the company’s 10-year, $8.1 billion transmission investment program will support 6,000 jobs annually -- generating more than $4.3 billion in salary and benefits and... Continue Reading

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