Let’s Talk Pole Replacement

Let's Talk Pole Replacement

While more than half of Lane Electric’s system is undergrounded, power poles remain a critical part of the cooperative’s infrastructure.

Each year, Lane Electric works with contractors to conduct detailed inspections of the system, targeting 10% of the grid at a time. With more than 17,000 poles, the process takes some time.

In 2026, inspections will take place in the areas around Dorena. Focus is placed on testing poles, inspecting equipment, and ensuring facilities comply with standards set by the Oregon Public Utilities Commission and the National Electric Safety Code. Frequent inspections help limit outages and ensure overall system safety.

Pole replacements fall into two main categories – planned and emergency.

Planned -- In a planned replacement, crews can ensure they have the proper equipment and manpower for the job. This controlled environment also means any contract teams, like flaggers, can be scheduled, locates for any underground wiring are complete, and work can sometimes occur without any interruption in service. This is a likely scenario for poles flagged for replacement during an inspection and, in some cases, for poles damaged by other unpredictable events.

Emergency -- Emergency pole replacements, which often result from accidents or weather events, present different challenges. Crew dispatch and travel time, potentially difficult environmental conditions, coordination with emergency responders, flaggers, and/ or other contracted crews, can all lead to extended repair times when unplanned replacements are needed.

The cooperative's priority is always to restore power as safely and quickly as possible, and we appreciate your patience while our crews complete their work.