Capital Projects

How does a polarized plug work? What’s the benefit of using it?   A polarized plug is a plug with one large or wide prong and one narrow one. It ensures that the plug is inserted correctly in a socket and reduces the risk of electrical shock.

Voltage Conversion Project

Groton Utilities continues its system upgrade projects. The 322 line, which is one of two lines that supply power to the New London/Groton Naval Base is in the process of being rebuilt. Also presently under construction are the rebuilding of the 318 and 324 lines from Poquonnock River Substation to Groton Long Point Substation. The 318/324-rebuild project is scheduled to continue throughout the summer and be completed in the fall of 2008. The 300 and 305, 35 kV lines from Buddington Substation to Trails Corner Substation have been rebuilt with the exception of the portion of the lines that cross over Route #95. Engineering is waiting on a permit from the State to complete that work.

The voltage conversion is continuing throughout Groton Utilities territory. To date, the southern portion, or 43% of the territory, primary distribution voltage has increased from 8.32 kV to 13.8 kV. As part of the Navy Base Housing Project, the housing developments of Cherry Circle, Dolphin Gardens, Nautilus Park North and Nautilus Park South are complete. Construction is underway in the final Navy Base Housing development Nautilus Park West. The project consists of replacing the existing overhead distribution lines with underground distribution facilities. The preventive maintenance program continues with the replacement of numerous aging poles. All of the protective relays are tested by-annually, infrared testing of all electrical facilities occur annually, and other critical maintenance procedures are being accomplished on schedule. Replacement of the traffic light controller and fixture located at the intersection of Mitchell Street and Poquonnock Road is schedule to start this spring. Once complete, this will be the fourth out of seven traffic lights to be upgraded. Capacitor banks were installed on the 35 kV primary distribution circuits at various locations to improve power factor levels and the efficiency of the distribution system.