New York’s electric grid just got a major check-up.
NYSEG and Rochester Gas & Electric announced they’ve inspected more than 250,000 utility poles so far in 2025 — part of a statewide effort to modernize the grid and prevent outages. The companies also replaced about 14,000 poles this year, with a goal of hitting 20,000 by year’s end.
“A strong pole infrastructure means customers can go about their daily lives uninterrupted,” said Patricia Nilsen, CEO of NYSEG and RG&E. “Many poles are over 40 years old and in dire need of replacement.”
The two utilities, which serve about 1.3 million electric customers across Upstate New York, maintain more than 1 million poles combined. All are inspected on a five-year cycle.
How poles are tested and replaced
Inspections range from visual reviews and voltage tests to more in-depth strength checks. About 57,000 poles received enhanced evaluations this year, which included digging around the base to look for ground rot, measuring wood strength, and drilling to find internal damage.
Poles flagged for replacement are prioritized based on factors like age, potential safety risk, outage history, and location.
While routine inspections catch most issues, NYSEG and RG&E also keep teams ready to respond to poles damaged in storms or vehicle accidents.
More upgrades coming
Plans for pole replacement and infrastructure upgrades beyond 2025 depend on the companies’ Powering New York proposal, currently under review by state regulators. That plan includes updated pole standards to support broadband expansion and improve grid resiliency amid more frequent severe weather.
Learn more at nyseg.com or rge.com.
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