Duke’s storm hardening efforts include burying more lines

Duke Energy Florida is undertaking a transformative initiative to bury an additional 26,000 power lines underground in St. Petersburg by 2027, enhancing the resilience of the local electrical infrastructure. This project is part of the company's comprehensive storm hardening strategy aimed at mitigating the impacts of severe weather on power supply. The focus will be on laterals, the smaller lines that connect directly to homes, which are particularly susceptible to damage during storms. Brian Lloyd, the general manager of distribution projects and engineering, emphasized the importance of these efforts for maintaining service reliability in the face of climate challenges.

By transitioning more lines underground, Duke Energy aims to reduce the frequency and duration of power outages, benefiting approximately 26,000 customers in the area. This initiative not only addresses immediate concerns about storm impacts but also aligns with broader environmental sustainability goals. As the region braces for more intense weather patterns, such infrastructure investments are critical for safeguarding community resilience. The project reflects a growing recognition of the need for proactive measures in energy distribution to adapt to changing climate conditions.