CMP Begins Grid Strengthening Project in Woolwich and Wiscasset (B/Roll)
CMP is upgrading more than seven miles of streetside line to improve service for 3,200 customers.
Augusta, ME — June 6, 2025 – Central Maine Power (CMP), a subsidiary of Avangrid Inc., today announced that crews have begun upgrading streetside lines in Woolwich and Wiscasset with stronger materials and covered tree wire. This line will also create a backup pathway for power to reach Woolwich if a storm or other event impacts the grid in this area.
Over the course of construction, an existing line will be rerouted onto Route 1 from an adjacent road, allowing for easier crew access and more efficient repairs. Taller, thicker wooden poles are currently being set along Route 1 in Woolwich. Drivers are asked to observe work zone signage and precautions.
“Once complete, this project will bring the benefits of stronger poles, backup power pathways, covered wire and smart devices to this part of Maine’s Midcoast,” said Eric Sutton, Vice President of Electric Operations for CMP. “These four core, long-term grid strengthening initiatives are an effective way to prepare for extreme storms and, in this case, improve our efficiency maintaining the grid in this area.”
In total, seven smart devices that can restore power in as little as five minutes and more than 180 poles will be installed.
In addition to the entirely new section of line on Route 1, lines on George Wright Road will be upgraded. After work on the new lines is finished, crews will remove streetside lines on Shaw Road and Weston Road in Woolwich.
This project is expected to reach completion in early 2026.
Downloadable video of pole setting in Woolwich along Route 1 taken on 6/4/25 that news media may use rights-free is available at this link.
Media Contact:
Dustin Wlodkowski