AEP Ohio officials plan power grid improvements to enhance electric reliability for customers in Ross County. The upgrades address the growing power demand in the area while relocating transmission facilities away from ancient cultural sites. Crews expect to begin construction in early 2028 and conclude by spring 2029.
The project includes:
*This project requires Ohio Project Siting Board (OPSB) approval.
The project aims to meet the increasing power demands of local customers by enhancing the reliability of electric service. Deteriorating structures, nearly a century old, have led to over 4 million minutes of electric service interruptions for customers. By replacing these aging power lines with modern structures, the project seeks to decrease the occurrence of power outages and expedite the restoration process when outages do happen. Additionally, the replacement of the Camp Sherman Substation with the Hopetown Substation enables crews to reroute 2.5 miles of power lines, thereby reducing the impact of transmission facilities on culturally and archaeologically sensitive sites.
Recognizing the historical and cultural importance of the Hopetown project site, AEP Ohio representatives have worked closely with state and local agency partners, including the State Historic Preservation Office, to protect the remaining site artifacts. Relocating the power lines off SR 104 also improves the view of the nearby ancient cultural sites.
The project involves the use of single steel poles.
Typical Pole Height: Approximately 75 - 85 feet*
Typical Right-of-Way Width: Approximately 80 - 100 feet*
*Exact structure types, height and right-of-way requirements may vary
Substations serve as electrical intersections that convert electric power to voltage levels for use in homes, businesses and industrial facilities.
*The substation shown is a general depiction of the proposed facilities for the project. It does not represent the final design.
Photo simulations are visual representations showing how proposed changes may look in a real-world environment. These simulations help viewers understand the potential impact of the project on the landscape and surrounding areas. By providing a visual comparison of the existing conditions and the anticipated improvements, stakeholders can better assess the project's design and its integration into the community.
AEP Ohio provides electricity to nearly 1.5 million customers.
833-689-3375
Outreach@AEPTransmission.com