Circuit Improvement Program

Ensuring Reliability

Just like a building’s electrical wiring, the energy grid that powers homes and businesses is made up of multiple circuits – on a much bigger scale, of course.

Distribution circuits are so named because they distribute electricity to customers from the various neighborhood substations that receive power from power plants and other sources. Across Long Island and the Rockaways, these circuits include about 8,800 miles of overhead power lines.

Every year, as part of our Circuit Improvement Program (CIP), PSEG Long Island inspects hundreds of miles of electric distribution lines to make sure the equipment is in good working order. We also upgrade poles, wires and other equipment to make circuits more reliable and better able to withstand extreme weather like heat waves and storms.

Since 2016, we inspected and upgraded equipment on 3,365 miles of distribution circuits – nearly 38 percent of the entire system.

Our crews perform these inspections and upgrades throughout the communities we serve to ensure that you and your neighbors receive safe, reliable and resilient power today and for years to come. 

You may notice our crews working in your neighborhood as part of the CIP.

  • What is the Circuit Improvement Program?
    Across Long Island and the Rockaways, our crews inspect and upgrade equipment along the power lines that distribute power to customers.
  • What are the work hours?
    During normal hours, crews work Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
  • Will tree trimming be done as part of CIP work?
    Trees growing near power lines pose safety risks and significantly increase the chance of power outages. We will trim trees when it’s necessary to improve safety and reliability.
  • Will CIP work result in any power outages?
    Circuit Improvement Program work typically does not require shutting off power. In the event that a brief outage is required, any customers that will be affected are notified in advance.
  • Will there be any traffic interruptions?
    There may be traffic and parking disruptions while work is performed along a project route. To ensure traffic moves safely, PSEG Long Island will provide cones, flagmen and signage at the work sites as needed. Local officials will be notified in advance regarding any traffic concerns.