Apr 20, 2021 | Reliability
We’re using technological innovation and data to reduce costs, improve safety, and keep the lights on for our customers.
This past winter we piloted dynamic line rating (DLR) technology on two of our transmission lines. When integrated successfully into operations, this technology has the potential to delay costly investments.
We’re excited to report that our pilot was successful. Thanks to the accuracy reported by our DLR sensors, we didn’t need to build new lines or upgrade the transmission line to avoid congestion.
The use of DLR sensors on our transmission lines saved millions of dollars that can be invested into preparing for the grid of the future. It also prevents us from having to do construction work.
Our company is one of the first to successfully integrate this technology into operations.
Let’s take a closer look at how it works.
The energy grid moves electricity like the roadway system moves vehicles. The grid has two main components. The transmission system (#2) acts like the highway, moving energy over long distances and across state lines. The distribution system (#4) acts like local roadways, delivering energy directly to homes and businesses.
Like traffic on the highway, the grid becomes congested when the transmission system can no longer deliver the electricity without exceeding certain limits. When this happens, just like roads need to be expanded or added, transmission owners, like us, must upgrade or build new electrical lines.
DLR sensors give real-time information on conditions that affect transmission line performance – like wind speed and line temperature. This information is used to increase the amount of electricity delivered over existing lines and decrease congestion.
Traditionally, static line ratings are taken when the lines are initially built, and the ratings are used indefinitely to make investment decisions. So, even though the environmental factors are continually changing, the rating assumes the most conservative factors are at play. When the grid becomes congested, we may be unable to increase the amount of electricity because the initial static line rating assumes we cannot. This means we must invest in upgrading or adding transmission lines.
“The information we are collecting is helping us better balance strong resiliency while holding down costs,” said Dave Quier, vice president of Transmission and Substation. “Not having to make upgrades to Harwood-Susquehanna saves money, avoids construction work and gives our team more flexibility to invest money where customers will see bigger reliability results.”
This is just another example of how we’re using technology, innovation and data to improve safety, reduce cost, and keep the lights on for you.
Apr 12, 2021 | Customer Service
Last year and the pandemic brought on many new challenges for our customers. It also brought on new challenges for our company, as the majority of customer service employees began working remotely. But with all the changes in 2020, our commitment to delivering remarkable service was stronger than ever.
Over the past year, you interacted with us millions of times across multiple channels. We offered help, answered your questions about payment agreements, programs and ways to save energy, and supported you through these difficult times.
Here’s how we did it:
Over 6.5 million web self-service transactions — Doing business through our website accounts for the largest chunk of customer contacts. And why not? You can do so many things, like manage your account, apply for help with your bill, learn great energy efficiency tips, and more.
Just under 1.5 million self-service transactions through our automated phone system — You can make a payment, report an outage, and even transfer your electric service in a few short minutes with our automated system.
Over 1.4 million phone calls — If you have a more complex need and prefer to speak with someone, we’re here to help.
About 2,400 social media responses— Did you know we answer customer questions on Facebook and Twitter? We have a dedicated team ready to respond.
Whenever and wherever you choose to contact us, we’ll be here for you.
Apr 7, 2021 | Community Involvement, Environment
At PPL, the environment is important to us and we know it’s equally important to you! That’s why we’re launching a campaign to honor Earth Day 2021 and we invite you to join us!
This year’s theme is #RestoreOurEarth. And what better time to get outside and preserve this beautiful environment than during Earth Week?
To join us, all you have to do is share a photo of you and your family doing something outside to preserve our environment between April 19 – April 25. Make sure you tag us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and use the hashtag #EarthDayMyWay.
Whether you’re planting a tree or garden, using a reusable water bottle, riding your bike, taking a walk, or discovering native plants, together we can #RestoreOurEarth.
To learn more about our environmental initiatives, here are just a few programs that demonstrate our commitment:
Community Roots
Through this program, we provide plants and trees to help preserve the environment where we live, play, and work.
Wood Recycling Program
Learn more about how we recycle old or broken utility poles to keep them out of landfills.
Helping Birds of Prey
This is how we protect wildlife and keep bald eagles soaring through our territory.
Mar 30, 2021 | Environment
Spring is upon us. And what better way to show our love of the environment than planting a tree? There’s just something about watching a tree adapt to all four seasons and grow right before our eyes. But before we get caught up in the beauty of nature, we must do a bit of research and take safety precautions before we pull out the shovels and start digging.
Here are a few tips for safe and successful tree prep and planting:
Keep tree roots in a cool place until ready to plant. Add water to moisten the roots, as needed.
Location, location, location – plan the spacing and location of your tree. And make sure it’s far away from any PPL power lines. If a tree is planted near power lines, eventually it may need to be trimmed or removed to keep your power reliable and the grid safe.
Call 811 before you dig! Know what’s below. It’s important to call 811 at least 3 business days before your project to avoid digging into any underground utility lines.
Consider using mulch (shredded bark or wood chips), around your tree to prevent damage to its roots.
For more information and a comprehensive guide to selecting, planting and caring for a new tree, visit www.arborday.org
Mar 30, 2021 | Community Involvement
As any teacher will tell you, the transition to a virtual environment has been a challenge. That’s why we’re stepping up to ease the burden and connect students with the resources they need to thrive.
Through a partnership with Smithsonian Science Education Center, Da Vinci Science Center, and the Allentown School District, we successfully launched a STEM literacy series for fourth and fifth grade students.
STEM – which stands for “Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math” – is critical as it prepares students for future success in both school and their careers.
To kick-off this initiative, we funded a professional development training with teachers so they could successfully launch the STEM program for roughly 2,500 students. Fourth graders learn about energy in the home, while fifth grade students are studying environmental energy. The great thing about this program is students receive a STEM package of their own, including a textbook and science kit. These resources are for the students to keep at home and share with their families after the 6-week lesson is complete.
We’re proud to play a small part in preventing STEM learning loss for these students during such a difficult time. Here’s to the next generation of STEM leaders!
