Cost saving benefits of wood structure maintenance [for power overhead lines]

For most electric utilities, the wood pole plant is one of its largest assets. The average life expectancy for a wood pole varies in different parts of the US from 30 to 40 years. However, an effective maintenance program can extend the average pole life by 10 or 20 or more years. Tremendous cost savings are realized through pole life extension, improved reliability, reduced outages and better management decisions based on data collection. This paper emphasizes the economic benefits of a comprehensive wood structure maintenance program. Accurate inspection and data acquisition, effective supplemental preservatives and dependable restoration systems provide the tools for more efficient management of the wood pole plant yielding tremendous economic benefits. Lowering operating costs, while maintaining a satisfactory customer service, is an important key for today's successful utilities.