Oftentimes, utilities share space for cables and wires on existing utility poles because it may be required by law or regulations, and this avoids the need, where possible, to construct duplicate infrastructure.
Like other utilities, LG&E and KU are among several service providers that own utility poles and conduit systems located in public-owned rights of way and in easements throughout Kentucky.
In order to share space, utilities and service providers must enter into third-party attachment agreements that are subject to meeting certain safety and reliability requirements.
Before attaching to company-owned utility poles, third-party attachments must meet the National Electrical Safety Code requirements and the company’s construction standards that are necessary to ensure the safety and reliability of our system.
LG&E and KU first work with a third-party service provider to determine if there is room on a utility pole to allow for the installation of additional cables.
Each utility pole must be reviewed as part of this process. During the review, the pole is checked to make sure there is space available for additional cables, that it meets proper safety clearances and that the pole could sustain additional loading caused by new cables. As part of this assessment, LG&E and KU must ensure the company can continue to provide safe, reliable service to our electric customers.
