Duke Energy updates grid as hurricane season continues

LELAND, NC (WWAY) — Duke Energy says its working to update the power grid at the height of storm season. 

The utility provider was in Brunswick County Wednesday replacing old wood power lines with new steel ones. 

Special transmission repair vehicles with treads had to be used in the rough terrain. 

It’s part of Duke Energy’s efforts to reinforce it’s power grid—especially along the coast. 

Duke Energy Spokesperson Logan Stewart says the utility provider replaced 11 substations and more than 850 miles of power lines in New Hanover County alone in 2024. 

“We’re seeing more extreme weather across the board. Of course, being here at the coast, that’s always a concern, definitely in the middle of storm season, so that’s one reason,” she said. “Another reason is just supporting the growth in this area.” 

Stewart says some power line poles can be up to 60 years old, making it important to replace them regularly.