CMP’s First 2025 Reliability Project Is Complete (B/Roll)
Work installing a new underwater cable for Frye Island is complete with many more project completions on the way this year.
Augusta, ME — January 30, 2025 – Central Maine Power (CMP) announced that the company completed its first grid reliability project of 2025, the installation of a new underwater cable in Sebago Lake to feed Frye Island. This new cable will ensure safe, reliable power will continue to flow to the island. The previous cable to Frye Island was in use for more than 30 years.
The project concluded on Friday, January 24 as crews installed a new device called an “automated recloser.” This smart technology will allow CMP’s Energy Control Center to remotely operate this part of the grid in the event of extreme weather.
“In the face of more extreme weather, we’re making investments like these all over Maine, upgrading decades-old poles, wire and other infrastructure with stronger materials and smarter technology,” said Eric Sutton, Vice President of Electric Operations for CMP. “Our pace doesn’t slow in cold weather either. We are continuously improving our grid for our customers and have numerous projects both kicking off and coming into service in 2025.”
CMP has also recently installed other smart technologies on the transmission system that feed large numbers of customers in both Bath and Rangeley. These devices are designed to isolate outages and restore power to customers remotely, often in as little as five minutes. Work is also underway to install this technology on transmission lines that serve Union, Wiscasset, Bristol and Washington.
Below is a link to downloadable video that news-media may use rights-free showing the recloser installation on 1/24/25, as well as drone clips from the Town of Frye Island showing part of the underwater cable being put in place this past fall.