Utility poles play an important role in delivering reliable power to members. It takes over 22,000 poles to provide electricity to the 11,500 homes and businesses we serve. That’s why it’s critical for us to protect and maintain them.

It’s illegal to attach anything to utility poles
Wind and storms have an obvious effect on utility poles, but other elements can also have negative consequences. Excess moisture, insects, and woodpeckers can cause poles to deteriorate. People can be harmful to poles as well. Anytime a nail, staple, or other fastener is attached, it creates an additional pathway for water and insects to access and weaken the pole. Attaching yard sale signs, solar-powered automatic gate openers, deer stands, flags, and basketball hoops to poles can lead to damage and will be removed by the cooperative’s employees.

In addition to reducing the life of the pole, unauthorized attachments can pose a hazard to lineworkers. Nails, tacks, and screws can tear their essential protective gear, like rubber gloves or flame-resistant clothing, exposing workers to the risk of electric shock. Signs are also dangerous for the public because they can block the view at busy intersections.

Poles are inspected regularly
American Energy Services, the cooperative’s contractor, will examine roughly 3,000 poles serving our Huston and Tolbert substations this fall. The Huston Substation serves members in Hanover, Milford, and Wayne townships and the Tolbert Substation serves members in Gratis, Milford, Somers, and Wayne townships. Pole inspections are typically completed within two months.

An annual investment
At a cost of $13 to inspect each pole, Butler Rural Electric Cooperative will spend $39,000 this year to ensure our poles can deliver the reliable electricity you expect from us.

Replacing poles
To check their condition, poles are exposed just below the surface and examined for decay or damage. Those that show signs of damage are placed on the co-op’s list to repair or replace, depending on the nature of the problem. Poles to be replaced will be marked with red tags with arrows pointing to where the damage is. All red tag poles will be replaced by June 2025.

The average cost to replace a pole is between $2,000 and $5,000 per pole, which includes labor and materials.

Regular inspections, along with avoiding unapproved attachments, helps prolong the lifespan of utility poles. A well-maintained pole can last 30 to 40 years — sometimes even longer — and allows Butler Rural Electric Cooperative to continue providing the power you depend on.

  
Poles that show signs of damage are placed on the co-op’s list to repair or replace, depending on the nature of the problem. Poles to be replaced will be marked with red ribbons or red tags with an arrow that points to where the damage is.