Eversource, the prominent utility company serving New Hampshire, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, is transforming the landscape of power restoration with its groundbreaking "rapid pole" technology. Tim McHugh, the electric service manager for Eversource, developed this innovative solution, initially tested during the Christmas 2022 storm when New Hampshire faced 200 broken poles and 80,000 customers in darkness. The rapid pole, equivalent to a 55-foot pole, was deployed as a prototype, showcasing its ability to reduce outage times by half.

Now, Eversource plans to deploy 17 rapid poles across its service areas, with seven stationed in New Hampshire. This portable technology, set up within 10 minutes, provides temporary power during outages, significantly enhancing the efficiency of power restoration efforts. McHugh emphasizes that these rapid poles are crucial tools for swiftly and safely restoring power, especially considering the increasing necessity during the COVID-19 pandemic and rising temperatures in the summer.

Recognized with an award from the Association of Edison Illuminating Companies, the rapid pole is attached to a tactical trailer, making it transportable around the state. Operating on battery-operated hydraulic units, it feeds high-voltage power back into the system. Eversource's commitment to grid resiliency is further underscored by the deployment of a mobile transformer, complementing the rapid pole's capabilities. These technological advancements align with the utility's dedication to leveraging nearly $7 million in Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds to enhance the state's distribution systems.

Source: nhbr.com