Pitt & Greene EMC has a right of way maintenance program in place to help reduce the frequency and duration of outages.  Rights of way (ROW) enable the coop to maintain the power lines by removing trees that could hinder the maintenance or operation of the power line. ROW areas typically extend 15 feet either side of the power line.  Pitt and Greene EMC must be able to maintain the power lines above and below the ROW.  The overall goal of our vegetation management program is to provide reliable power to our members. 

A proactive vegetation management program benefits co-op members in three ways. 

Safety

First and foremost, we care about our members and put their safety and that of our line workers above all else. Overgrown vegetation and trees pose a risk to power lines. For example, if trees are touching power lines in our members’ yards, they can pose grave danger to families. If children can access those trees, they can potentially climb into a danger zone. Electricity can arc, or jump, from a power line to a nearby conductor like a tree. A proactive approach also diminishes the chances of fallen branches or trees during severe weather events that make it more complicated and dangerous for line workers to restore power.   

Reliability  

Of course, one of the biggest benefits of a smart vegetation management program is reliability. Strategic tree trimming reduces the frequency of downed lines causing power outages. Generally speaking, healthy trees don’t fall on power lines, and clear lines don’t cause problems. Proactive trimming and pruning keeps lines clear to promote reliability.  

Affordability    

If trees grow too close to power lines, the potential for expensive repairs also increases. Effective tree trimming and other vegetation management efforts keep costs down for everyone.  

Our members depend on us to provide reliable energy. Through vegetation management, we are better able to keep the power lines clear and prepare for future weather events. 

Pitt & Greene EMC is committed to providing safe, reliable, and affordable electricity by regularly inspecting, maintaining, and clearing trees and vegetation.  Our members depend on us to provide reliable energy. Through vegetation management, we are better able to keep the power lines clear and prepare for future weather events. 

Before embarking on the planting of a tree or shrub, it is imperative to ensure that the chosen location does not pose a hindrance to overhead power lines and remains distant from underground lines and other utility installations.  To facilitate safe excavation practices, remember to call 811 before digging.