March 4, 2021 – Customers in Argenta and Oreana will see a number of new power lines as Ameren works to modernizing the local energy grid.
Beginning this month, Ameren Illinois contractors will replace more than 80 poles and power lines on the east side of the railroad tracks that run parallel to Illinois Route 48. The nearly 4.5-mile route connects from Ameren Illinois’ Oreana Substation between Decatur and Oreana to its Argenta Substation on the north side of Argenta. The crews will be installing T-2 power lines along the route. T-2 lines consist of two different wires that are twisted together to make one, stronger power line that is better able to withstand high winds and help reduce ice accumulation on the overhead grid.
Crews will also storm harden the corridor by strategically placing composite poles along the project route. Approximately, every fifth pole will be made of composite fiberglass, which is able to better withstand high winds during storms. In addition, the plan calls for the removal of all the vintage steel towers, which were constructed around 1930. The $3.2 million project is scheduled to be completed in early November.
“This upgrade is part of our overall statewide plan to build a cleaner, greener, more resilient grid,” said Brian Brackney, Director North Electric Operations, Ameren Illinois. “With these enhancements, Ameren Illinois is taking proactive steps to meet today’s demand for reliable energy while preparing the grid for the future. We’re excited to bring these enhancements to our customers in Macon County.”
