Bangor and Presque Isle, ME - Keeping electric service safe and reliable for customers requires identifying and replacing aging infrastructure before it causes outages or creates safety concerns. That's the focus of Versant Power's multi-year effort to replace more than 340 miles of aging #6 copper wire across our distribution system.

Why are we replacing #6 copper wire?

Much of the #6 copper wire still in service today was installed before the 1960s and has reached or exceeded its expected lifespan. As it ages, the wire becomes more brittle and vulnerable to damage from storms, ice, wind, and everyday operating conditions.

Replacing aging wire before it fails helps reduce the potential for public safety hazards like downed lines, improve worker safety, minimize service interruptions, and make the electric system more resilient. This proactive program supports reliable service for customers while helping prevent avoidable emergency repairs.

#6 copper wire replacement work

Where is the work happening?

Approximately 5% of Versant Power's distribution system consists of #6 copper wire. About 120 miles of aging #6 copper wire remain in service in Aroostook County. Across Penobscot, Piscataquis, and Washington counties, approximately 220 miles remain.

“Versant Power plans to replace more than 20 miles of #6 copper wire each year,” said Versant Power’s Vice President of Engineering Kyle Ravin. “We have targets to replace close to 50% of the identified conductor by 2032 and 75% by 2035.”

Projects are prioritized based on factors such as customer impact, outage history, system condition, and the amount of aging #6 copper wire involved.

#6 copper wire replacement work

A focus on safety

Because many of these projects involve aging infrastructure in challenging locations, crews take additional precautions before work begins. Ground inspections, drone technology, thermal imaging, and other assessment tools help identify potential concerns and support safe, efficient work.

Some projects may require multiple vehicles, heavy equipment, lane restrictions, or temporary access limitations. We ask drivers and pedestrians to remain alert, follow traffic control signs, and respect work zone barriers to keep our crews and themselves safe.

By proactively replacing #6 copper wire, we are reducing safety risks, lowering the likelihood of outages, and maintaining a reliable electric system for the customers and communities we serve.

Versant Power is committed to delivering safe, reliable electric service. As the state's second-largest electric utility, the company delivers electricity to more than 165,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers across 10,400 square miles in northern and eastern Maine.