USA, Ohio, Lakewood: FirstEnergy has started upgrades at its Lakewood substation in Ohio, following repeated electricity service problems reported by local residents.
The company said the work marks one of the key milestones promised to the City of Lakewood after a town hall meeting last August, where residents raised concerns about power reliability in the suburb.
According to Sally Thomas, FirstEnergy Vice President of Delivery, the utility is installing the first of two new transformers at the Lakewood substation. The equipment being replaced had failed in May 2025, contributing to concerns about reliability in the area.
FirstEnergy said the new transformer is only one part of a wider improvement programme for Lakewood customers. The utility is also replacing ageing equipment on more than 150 poles.
The company said reliability has already improved through tree trimming and breaker replacement work. Further improvement is expected once the new transformer enters service in August. A second new transformer is due to be delivered later this summer.
Thomas said the work is part of FirstEnergy’s effort to rebuild trust with the community and meet the promises made to Lakewood residents.
The upgrades are intended to help the utility meet current electricity demand while also preparing the local network for future needs.
Source: 19 News
