Automation Program
New advanced devices, including what are known as “automated switches”, are being installed in strategic locations on CMP’s grid. Specifically, these devices allow staff in CMP’s Energy Control Center (ECC) to remotely redirect power around damaged sections of line. This option provides the capability to restore service to customers in some situations in as little as five minutes.
This smart technology is being installed on streetside lines, on transmission lines and in substations.
Project Scope
In 2025, CMP will be upgrading its grid with hundreds of smart technology devices in communities throughout its service area. All locations are subject to change.
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Distribution Lines
CMP is strengthening its streetside grid in nearly 50 southern Maine communities including Bath, Brunswick, Gorham, and the Portland area by using smart technology and stronger poles. In 2025, crews will install 250 smart devices on top of 100 that were installed in 2024.
In most locations, current structures will be replaced with new, taller wooden poles, and device control boxes will be installed.
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Transmission Lines
These lines feed large numbers of customers. Along with substations, they form the “backbone” of Maine’s energy grid. Adding smart devices to these lines allows us to restore large numbers of customers quicky. Recently, CMP was able to bring power back to 2,800 customers in the Norway and Woodstock areas in under three minutes.
Durable steel poles and fiberglass crossarms will replace
About CMP’s Installation Work
CMP will be working streetside for distribution installations, in our corridor for transmission line installations, and inside or directly outside substation locations. For line work, crews will be working in our easements, right of ways, or areas where access rights have been given by landowners. We may ask for permission from landowners to access their property to complete the upgrades.
Our crews will need at least three days to do the bulk of the work and will likely return to the sites again at a later date for final steps.
CMP will secure all municipal, state or federal permits, if needed.
CMP is committed to completing the work in a safe and efficient manner while striving to keep any inconvenience to customers at a minimum. CMP will complete the restoration of any property that is affected by construction as soon as practical upon finishing the work.
Construction activity may impact local traffic. For your safety and that of CMP’s crews, please drive carefully through construction zones. Road traffic may be down to one lane at times and detour flaggers and/or signs will be present.
Also, for your safety, please do not enter construction zones.
Most of CMP’s construction work will be completed without customers experiencing an interruption of service.
After work is completed, customers may see two poles. Sometimes this happens because other infrastructure like telecommunications lines still need to be moved to the new pole. As CMP installs new poles, it notifies these other companies that it is possible to transfer lines to the upgraded pole.
If you have any questions or comments, please reach out to us at 1.888.267.0831 or outreach@cmpco.com. A specialist will be in touch with you.