Structure Replacements
During recent inspections of transmission lines throughout CMP’s service area, we identified wooden structures that need replacing. Starting in May, CMP will begin a two-year program to upgrade wooden structures with new, stronger steel poles that have longer lifespans and can better withstand extreme storms. The poles are engineered to modern specifications that improve grid reliability.
Estimated Timetable: 2025
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Construction Start: May 2025
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Completion: End of 2027
Frequently asked questions
Structures will be upgraded in the following municipalities. Additional structures will be replaced in 2026-27.
- Auburn
- Augusta
- Baldwin
- Buxton
- Dallas Plantation
- Edgecomb
- Fryeburg
- Harrison
- Hollis
- Lang Township
- Lewiston
- Limington
- Newcastle
- Ogunquit
- Saco
- Sandy River Plantation
- Sanford
- Somerville
- Standish
- Union
- Waterford
- Wiscasset
- Woolwich
- Washington
- York
The new steel structures will be, on average, five feet taller. The older wooden poles will be removed.
Most work will be completed without customers experiencing an interruption of service.
CMP crews will be accessing our transmission line corridor via roads where CMP has access rights or legal agreements with property owners or towns. CMP land agents from our Real Estate department will be reaching out to some adjacent landowners to acquire access rights.
CMP crews will be visiting transmission line sites scheduled for upgrades to measure and mark property boundaries and environmentally sensitive areas. Please do not remove any flags.
CMP will secure all necessary permits for this project, if needed, from the Maine Department of Transportation, Maine Department of Environmental Protection, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, municipalities, and railroads.
Timber ground mats will be used, especially in environmentally sensitive areas, to safely disburse the weight of construction vehicles and not disrupt the land below them.
At CMP, safety is a priority – yours and our crews. Our right-of-way and road locations will be active construction zones. Please do not enter construction zones. For work along streets, flaggers and signs will notify pedestrians and motorists of work zones.
Trees and vegetation will be trimmed in the right-of-way, as needed.
Work activity periods will comply with town ordinances. Typical construction noise, including drilling, will occur. Abutters may hear heavy equipment (bucket trucks, cranes, and excavators) during construction activities.