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Puget Sound Energy reliability project
Whidbey Island vegetation management
Spring 2013 project updates
- In 2010, PSE completed clearing segment 7 in Oak Harbor and segments 11, 12 and 14 south of Coupeville (see project map for segment locations). Prior to 2010, we completed clearing segments 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 13 and 21
- In summer 2011, PSE completed clearing segments 10, 14 and 15 south of Coupeville (see project map)
- In summer 2012, we cleared line segments 8B and 8C north of Coupeville (see project map), and a portion of line segment 5. We expect to clear the remaining portion of line segment 5 and line segment 6 in the Oak Harbor area in spring 2013.
- In 2013 and 2014, we expect to clear line segments -1, -2 and -3 between Deception Pass and March Point substation, located east of Anacortes (see project map). This area is in Skagit County.
- Customers will receive advance notice of any proposed clearing, and will have an opportunity to speak with PSE real estate and vegetation management representatives prior to any work being done.
Project overview
Historically, fallen trees and tree limbs are the main cause of power outages on Whidbey Island. This was particularly evident during the winter of 2006 when fierce rains and winds caused trees and branches to fall into transmission lines and knock out power to the entire island. Accordingly, PSE is accelerating its efforts on Whidbey Island and improving our system's reliability by pro-actively working to reduce tree-related outages in our transmission corridor. Based on a comprehensive review of outage history and an independent review of our storm response and procedures, PSE has identified specific existing transmission line corridors where the removal of trees with a mature height of 25 feet or more can materially improve service reliability.
The reliability initiative on Whidbey Island is a unique, multi-year effort to improve electric reliability through enhanced vegetation management; it will take several years to clear around the transmission line corridor. Priority for our vegetation removal is being given to line segments with the greatest risk of tree-related outages.
What is vegetation management?
Vegetation management involves a variety of programs and techniques designed to protect power lines from the impacts of nearby trees. These programs may include pruning, tree removal, herbicides and smart planting practices. All actions are taken to keep the public safe and the lights on.
Storm damaged power lines
on Whidbey Island. Used
with permission from
South Whidbey Record.
Committed to keeping you informed
PSE will continue to provide updates to the community. We will notify residents and businesses near the project area when construction will occur. We aim to complete the work with as little disruption as possible.
Want to know more?
If you have any questions about PSE's vegetation management process or policies please call 1-888-225-5773 or visit our vegetation management section on PSE.com.
Download information
Whidbey Island vegetation management segment map, October 2011
Letter from PSE customer, Jan. 2010