Overhead Transmission Line Construction Emerges as Preferred Solution
Cape Hatteras Electric Cooperative and contract crews have simultaneously pursued two options for restoring permanent transmission service to Hatteras and Ocracoke Islands, waiting for one solution to emerge as the fastest, safest way to restore reliable transmission service. That determination has been reached.
Overhead Solution: Constructing a new overhead transmission line from its underground point at the south end of the Bonner Bridge to the point where it meets the cooperative’s existing overhead transmission line is the most expedient way to restore transmission service to the islands. CHEC reached this determination in consultation with specialty contract crews including Lee Electrical Construction, an organization that specializes in high-voltage transmission line construction, and New River Electrical, which specializes in the highly complex processes of splicing and transitioning lines from underground to overhead.
Overhead Progress: Crews began installing the three-phase line last night. Concurrently, the specialist team from New River Electrical is executing prep work for creating the transition from underground to overhead just before the site of the damage and creating connections to the existing overhead lines that run the length of Hatteras Island.
Underground Situation: Despite PCL Construction’s tireless excavation efforts and attempts to dewater the trench at the site of the damage, trench conditions proved to be too challenging for the underground solution to be viable. PCL Construction was able to reveal all three cables, but water continued to seep into the trench making the environment unsuitable for repairs.
Timeframe: The restoration timeframe from this point forward is 3-5 days. This includes the time required for testing after all construction is complete and before transmission service can begin. CHEC is also working with Dare County officials to coordinate the safe return of visitors as soon as possible
From CHEC: There are many people, partners and businesses we would like to thank. We are very appreciative of the support of our members, visitors, contract crews and PCL Construction for leading the excavation.
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