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Linemen News: March 2017

Highlights from the World of Linemen News

Here are some industry news and information articles from around the web, just for you.
Collage of towers halved

Tree Service Fleets Use GPS Tracking Technology to Solve Common Problems

Tree service companies widely have adopted GPS tracking technology to make their fleet operations more efficient and productive. GPS tracking solutions also can improve customer satisfaction, eliminate unauthorized usage of company vehicles and equipment, reduce fuel costs, improve driver behavior and more.
If a tree service fleet works with an electric co-op to clear right of way utility lines, reacts to emergency storm response, clears brush or provides just about any other service, GPS tracking can help manage crews in the most effective way… Read More

Denver Benchmarking Aims For Greater Building Energy Efficiency

Recognizing that buildings are one of the biggest culprits when it comes to the emissions of greenhouse gases, the city of Denver recently adopted new energy efficiency benchmarking requirements for commercial and some residential buildings.

In December, the city council adopted the “Energize Denver” program. It implements new benchmarking requirements for commercial and multifamily buildings. Beginning in 2017, those buildings over 25,000 square feet will be required to track and report their Energy Star score. In 2018, buildings over 50,000 square feet… Read More

Illinois launches ‘NextGrid’ utility of the future study

The Illinois Commerce Commission yesterday launched an 18-month study focused on finding new technologies, utility business models and regulatory strategies to transform the state’s grid into a more flexible and efficient resource.
The NextGrid study will be led by an outside facilitator and will result in a final report late in 2018 that will include “tangible recommendations” to the ICC and Illinois General Assembly.
The study mirrors other grid modernization efforts and holistic utility reviews happening in New York, California, Ohio and other states… Read More

Abu Dhabi Approves $64 Million in Infrastructure Projects, Includes T&D

Abu Dhabi Executive Council has approved development projects worth Dh235 million ($64 million) as part of its plans to boost the infrastructure in United Arab Emirates. According to news reports coming out of the UAE, the approval includes a power link to move power generated by the Barakah Nuclear Power Plant to the Emirates’ existing power grid at a cost of Dh63 million… Read More

Eversource Installing New Transmission Lines with Helicopter

Eversource will be using a helicopter flying more than 80 feet above ground to pull lines through new transmission structures in the Watertown/Litchfield area in New Hampshire starting this week. Once complete, these new lines will improve system reliability by creating a new path for energy to flow between substations in the area and provide a long-term solution to the region’s increasing energy needs.

“The region’s transmission system is the backbone of the electric grid, and this important work is part of our commitment to improving system reliability,” said Stephen Sullivan, Vice President of Project Management at Eversource. “Using the helicopter to install new transmission lines greatly reduces the impact to environmentally-sensitive areas. It also reduces the amount of time needed to complete the job, compared to conventional methods.”… Read More