A new safety alert from the Virginia State Corporation Commission highlights growing risks tied to expanding electrical infrastructure.
As electrical demand increases, utilities are adding new transmission lines, upgrading existing lines, and reconductoring systems to boost capacity. These changes can create AC interference when lines are near underground metallic pipelines, which can disrupt cathodic protection and accelerate corrosion.
The alert also notes that existing mitigation systems may not be designed for these upgraded conditions, increasing the risk of rapid pipeline degradation.
Operators are encouraged to take proactive steps, including:
- Coordinating with electric transmission operators early
- Monitoring VA811 excavation notices for nearby electrical work
- Increasing cathodic protection monitoring and interference testing
- Using routine patrols to identify changes in nearby electrical infrastructure
With large-scale electrical buildout underway, operators should stay engaged and monitor closely to prevent corrosion before it starts.
For a copy of the URS Safety Alert, please message Jessica Foley.