NYSEG Unveils Two New Rapid Pole Machines To Expedite Restorations
Trailer can improve restoration of energy due to broken pole from six hours to 20 minutes
NYSEG invests approximately $400,000 for machines in pilot program
BINGHAMTON, N.Y. — June 9, 2025 — New York State Electric & Gas (NYSEG) today announced it has acquired two rapid pole machines. These pole-mounted trailers help ensure energy reliability by creating a temporary pole when a wood pole breaks during an emergency such as a motor vehicle accident or storm and during planned outages.
“We acquired these rapid pole machines as part of a pilot program to determine their effectiveness over the long-term,” said Robert McDonough, senior manager of regional operations at NYSEG. “We are always looking for innovative ways to keep the power on in people’s homes. These machines could be vital in doing just that.”
The machines are equivalent to a 55-foot pole set in the ground. They rest on a tactical trailer with a telescopic mast that supports a variety of crossarm and bracket configurations capable of securing multiple overhead circuits. The machines allow for an efficient and secure wire installation, plus quick and efficient energization.
The trailers also require fewer resourcces to operate. Whenever a wood pole is damaged or destroyed by nature, car crash, or other source, it typically takes a crew of at least four people approximately four to six hours to install a new pole. This crew often needs to use of a bucket truck and digger truck to install the new wood pole. The rapid pole machines, meanwhile, takes a crew of as few as two people only 20 minutes from set up to deployment.
NYSEG purchased two rapid pole machines for its pilot program at approximately $200,000 each. One machine is stationed in the Company’s Brewster division and another is located in the Lancaster division. Following a training period, NYSEG will implement the rapid pole machines in the field and measure its effect on outage durations over the next four to six months before deciding whether to purchase additional units.
Media Contact:
Michael Baggerman